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Football 2024

Contents

Expect excitement and junior achievement

Chris Dugan

Baseball season is still in full swing in the area. The Pirates are on the perimeter of the wild-card playoff race in the National League, which, along with rookie pitcher Paul Skenes, put interest back into Major League Baseball in this area during the summer.

The Wild Things are again headed for the playoffs, chasing the franchise’s elusive first Frontier League championship. And the Pony League World Series concluded another exciting and successful run at Lew Hays Pony Field in Washington.

While baseball generated interest this year, the one sport that remains king in Western Pennsylvania is football. From the Steelers to the colleges to the high schools, the weekend is just better when your team wins. Football is the discussion at the office water cooler, at the dinner table and at the local bar and grill. There is an old saying that men believe they know how to do two things: use a grill and coach football. Too often these days all of that coaching is being done from the bleachers and luxury suites.

For the 47th year, the Observer-Reporter is providing football fans with our annual football preview, complete with all your need to know about the local teams. For more than three decades, this publication has been in conjunction with The Almanac, the O-R’s sister newspaper. Over the past month, the sports staffs at the O-R, Almanac and Uniontown Herald-Standard –another sister publication of the O-R – and our correspondents have been visiting football camps, interviewing coaches and players and gathering all the information you need to get ready for the football season.

It didn’t take any kind of covert work by anybody to find out that some schools in the area will have a tough act to follow this fall. Last year was the area’s most successful ever as three schools – Peters Township, Belle Vernon and Fort Cherry – won WPIAL championships. PT and Fort Cherry advanced to the PIAA title game for the first time in school history and Belle Vernon won its second consecutive state championship. If Peters Township and Fort Cherry are to repeat the success of last season, then they will likely be getting some junior achievement. Junior quarterback Nolan DiLucia is back at Peters Township after leading the WPIAL in passing with 3,131

Which local high school football teams will rise to the top in 2024? Last year produced three WPIAL champions, two PIAA runners-up and a state champion.

yards. Matt Sieg is back for his junior year at Fort Cherry after leading the WPIAL in rushing (2,389 yards), total offense (4,059 yards), scoring (264 points) and exciting plays.

Another junior quarterback to watch is at Trinity. Jonah Williamson was the Offensive Player of the Year as a sophomore in the Class 4A Big Seven Conference. That’s an award that has been dominated for years by players from Thomas Jeffer-

son. Last year, Williamson, like Sieg, was a 1,000-1,000 player. He passed for 1,860 yards and ran for 1,012 as the Hillers made the WPIAL playoffs..

DiLucia, Sieg and Williamson are the cover subjects of this preview edition. The team that many people have targeted for bounce-back year is Upper St. Clair. Our sources say the Panthers are loaded and ready to challenge for championships.

See Dugan, Page 6

Contributors: Kaci Alderson, Eleanor Bailey, Rob Burchianti, Chris Dugan, Jonathan Guth, Adam Huckestein, Bill Hughes, Mark Marietta, John Sacco, Joe Tuscano

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter

Dugan

Continued from Page 4

On the collegiate level, Penn State begins the season ranked in the top 10. The Nittany Lions will open the season at West Virginia. Remember when Pitt, Penn State and WVU played each other every season? That was back when the wants of fans still mattered and before the almighty dollar began ruling major college football and determining which schools play in which conferences.

The Big Ten, Atlantic Coast Conference and Big XII all have new looks this year. Rutgers at Southern California? Yep, that’s a Big Ten game. So too is UCLA at Penn State. Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler must be turning over in their graves.

The ACC has expanded to include Stanford, California and SMU. Stanford plays consecutive conference games at Syracuse and Clemson. Hope the Cardinal are getting frequent flyer miles.

The Big XII has added Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah. It should at least make postgame news conferences more interesting with Deion Sanders in the league.

As for the small colleges, California and Washington & Jefferson are trying to get back to the NCAA playoffs and have the talent to do so. The Vulcans didn’t get any help from the person who makes the schedule. Cal will play only one home game before Oct. 19.

The WPIAL has realigned its conferences for this year. No longer will McGuffey be playing in the same conference – and the same classification – as rival Washington. Class 6A has grown to seven teams and there are changes in store for Class A. Canon-McMillan has managed to keep some of its rivalry games, against Peters Township and Upper St. Clair but Bethel Park is no longer on the schedule. The Big Macs do play neighboring South Fayette.

Belle Vernon, after winning two consecutive WPIAL and PIAA Class 3A championships, has been moved back up to Class 4A and will play in the Big Six Conference, formerly the Big Seven. McGuffey will be playing in the Class 3A Western Hills Conference, along with schools in Beaver and Allegheny counties. The Highlanders will open the season against Washington and play the following week at Trinity. Monessen has been moved out of the Class A Tri-County South Conference and shifted to the Black Hills. Avella replaces Monessen in the TCS. In Class A, only the top three finishers in each conference will be guaranteed a playoff berth. The final four spots will be wild cards chosen by the WPIAL’s football committee. That’s probably not good news for local teams. One rivalry game is back on the schedule. Charleroi and Monessen, the most-played series involving area teams, will be the season opener after being dropped from the schedule for several years.

One tradition that never left is the O-R’s sports staff and several of its correspondents will be making their weekly football predictions again in Thursday editions. We hope this is the year Joe Tuscano finally climbs out of the basement in the picks standings. Several high schools have new head coaches this year. Marty Spieler has a tough act to follow succeeding ultra-successful Joe Rossi at South Fayette. Greg Perry takes his passing game to Mt. Lebanon, former W&J standout Dan Lis returns to his alma mater, Chartiers-Houston. Robert Heller, a former Observer-Reporter Male Athlete of the Year, returns to his alma mater, Ringgold, and will try to re-energize the Rams.

One thing that hasn’t changed is at Mapletown, where George Messich begins his 42nd season as the Maples’ coach. Think about that for a moment. What were you doing 42 years ago?

As for the Steelers, a soft early season schedule might be just what is needed to get whoever plays quarterback in sync with the rest of the offense before AFC North games begin. Then again, the Steelers do have a knack for playing down to the level of their competition.

Observer-Reporter Sports editor Chris Dugan can be reached at dugan@observerreporter.com.

Cherry quarterback

Sieg, top left, led the WPIAL in rushing, total offense and scoring last year. Peters Township’s Nolan DiLucia, left, was the leading passer and Trinity’s Jonah Williams, above, passed for more than 1,000 yards, rushed for more than 1,000 and was the Offensive Player of the Year in the Big Seven Conference.

Fort

Matt

Photos by Mark Marietta/

All Times Eastern WEEK 1

Thursday, Sept. 5

Baltimore at Kansas City, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Friday, Sept. 6

Philadelphia at Green Bay, 8:15 p.m. (PEACOCK)

Sunday, Sept. 8

Pittsburgh at Atlanta, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Arizona at Buffalo, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Tennessee at Chicago, 1 p.m. (FOX)

New England at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Houston at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Jacksonville at Miami, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Carolina at New Orleans, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Minnesota at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Las Vegas at L.A. Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Denver at Seattle, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Dallas at Cleveland, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Washington at Tampa Bay, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Rams at Detroit, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Sept. 9

N.Y. Jets at San Francisco, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN/ABC) WEEK 2

Thursday, Sept. 12

Buffalo at Miami, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Sept. 15

Las Vegas at Baltimore, 1 p.m. (CBS)

L.A. Chargers at Carolina, 1 p.m. (CBS)

New Orleans at Dallas, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Tampa Bay at Detroit, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Indianapolis at Green Bay, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Cleveland at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. (CBS)

San Francisco at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Seattle at New England, 1 p.m. (FOX)

N.Y. Jets at Tennessee, 1 p.m. (CBS)

N.Y. Giants at Washington, 1 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Rams at Arizona, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Pittsburgh at Denver, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Cincinnati at Kansas City, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Chicago at Houston, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Sept. 16

Atlanta at Philadelphia, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 3

Thursday, Sept. 19

New England at N.Y. Jets, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Sept. 22

N.Y. Giants at Cleveland, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Chicago at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Houston at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Philadelphia at New Orleans, 1 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Chargers at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. (CBS

Denver at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Green Bay at Tennessee, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Carolina at Las Vegas, 4:05 p.m. (CBS

Miami at Seattle, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Detroit at Arizona, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Baltimore at Dallas, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

San Francisco at L.A. Rams, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Kansas City at Atlanta, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Sept. 23

Jacksonville at Buffalo, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)

Washington at Cincinnati, 8:15 p.m. (ABC)

WEEK 4

Thursday, Sept. 26

Dallas at N.Y. Giants, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Sept. 29

New Orleans at Atlanta, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Cincinnati at Carolina, 1 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Rams at Chicago, 1 p.m. (FOX)

NFL SCHEDULES BY WEEK

Minnesota at Green Bay, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Jacksonville at Houston, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Pittsburgh at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Denver at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Philadelphia at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Washington at Arizona, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

New England at San Francisco, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Kansas City at L.A. Chargers, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Cleveland at Las Vegas, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Buffalo at Baltimore, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Sept. 30

Tennessee at Miami, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)

Seattle at Detroit, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 5

Thursday, Oct. 3

Tampa Bay at Atlanta, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Oct. 6

N.Y. Jets vs. Minnesota (Tottenham), 9:30 a.m. (NFLN)

Carolina at Chicago, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Baltimore at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Buffalo at Houston, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Indianapolis at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Miami at New England, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Cleveland at Washington, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Las Vegas at Denver, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Arizona at San Francisco, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Green Bay at L.A. Rams, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

N.Y. Giants at Seattle, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Dallas at Pittsburgh, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Oct. 7

New Orleans at Kansas City, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 6

Thursday, Oct. 10

San Francisco at Seattle, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Oct. 13

Jacksonville vs. Chicago (Tottenham), 9:30 a.m. (NFLN)

Washington at Baltimore, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Arizona at Green Bay, 1 p.m. (FOX)Houston at New England , 1 p.m. (CBS)

Tampa Bay at New Orleans, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Cleveland at Philadelphia, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Indianapolis at Tennessee, 1 p.m. (CBS)

L.A. Chargers at Denver, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Pittsburgh at Las Vegas, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Atlanta at Carolina, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Detroit at Dallas, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Cincinnati at N.Y. Giants, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Oct. 14

Buffalo at N.Y. Jets, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 7

Thursday, Oct. 17

Denver at New Orleans, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Oct. 20

New England vs. Jacksonville, (Wembley), 9:30 a.m. (NFLN)

Seattle at Atlanta, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Tennessee at Buffalo, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Cincinnati at Cleveland, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Houston at Green Bay, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Miami at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Detroit at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Las Vegas at L.A. Rams, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Carolina at Washington, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Kansas City at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

N.Y. Jets at Pittsburgh, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

WEEK 8

Thursday, Oct. 24

Minnesota at L.A. Rams, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Oct. 29

Baltimore at Cleveland, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Tennessee at Detroit, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Indianapolis at Houston, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Green Bay at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Arizona at Miami, 1 p.m. (FOX)

N.Y. Jets at New England, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Atlanta at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Chicago at Washington, 1 p.m. (CBS)

New Orleans at L.A. Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Buffalo at Seattle, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Philadelphia at Cincinnati, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Carolina at Denver, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Kansas City at Las Vegas, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Dallas at San Francisco, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Oct. 28

N.Y. Giants at Pittsburgh, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 9

Thursday, Oct. 31

Houston at N.Y. Jets, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Nov. 3

Dallas at Atlanta, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Denver at Baltimore, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Miami at Buffalo, 1 p.m. (CBS)

New Orleans at Carolina, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Las Vegas at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Chargers at Cleveland, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Indianapolis at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Washington at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. (FOX)

New England at Tennessee, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Chicago at Arizona, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Detroit at Green Bay, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Rams at Seattle, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Jacksonville at Philadelphia, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Nov. 4

Tampa Bay at Kansas City, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 10

Thursday, Nov. 7

Cincinnati at Baltimore, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Nov. 10

N.Y. Giants vs. Carolina (Munich), 9:30 a.m. (NFLN)

New England at Chicago, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Buffalo at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Minnesota at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Denver at Kansas City, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Atlanta at New Orleans, 1 p.m. (FOX)

San Francisco at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Pittsburgh at Washington, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Tennessee at L.A. Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

N.Y. Jets at Arizona, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Philadelphia at Dallas, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Detroit at Houston, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Nov. 11

Miami at L.A. Rams, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 11

Thursday, Nov. 14

Washington at Philadelphia, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Nov. 17

Green Bay at Chicago, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Jacksonville at Detroit, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Las Vegas at Miami, 1 p.m. (CBS)

L.A. Rams at New England, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Cleveland at New Orleans, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Baltimore at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Cincinnati at L.A. Chargers, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Indianapolis at N.Y. Jets, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Nov. 18

Houston at Dallas, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 12

Thursday, Nov. 21

Pittsburgh at Cleveland, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Nov. 24

Kansas City at Carolina, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Minnesota at Chicago, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Tennessee at Houston, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Detroit at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. (FOX)

New England at Miami, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Tampa Bay at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Dallas at Washington, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Denver at Las Vegas, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

San Francisco at Green Bay, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Arizona at Seattle, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Philadelphia at L.A. Rams, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Nov. 25

Baltimore at L.A. Chargers, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 13

Thursday, Nov. 28

Chicago at Detroit, 12:30 p.m. (CBS)

N.Y. Giants at Dallas, 4:30 p.m. (FOX)

Miami at Green Bay, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Friday, Nov. 29

Las Vegas at Kansas City, 3 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Dec. 1

L.A. Chargers at Atlanta, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Houston at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Arizona at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Indianapolis at New England, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Seattle at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Tennessee at Washington, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Tampa Bay at Carolina, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Rams at New Orleans, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Philadelphia at Baltimore, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

San Francisco at Buffalo, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Dec. 2

Cleveland at Denver, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 14

Thursday, Dec. 5

Green Bay at Detroit, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Dec. 8

N.Y. Jets at Miami, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Atlanta at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (FOX)

New Orleans at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Carolina at Philadelphia, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Cleveland at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Las Vegas at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Jacksonville at Tennessee, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Seattle at Arizona, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Buffalo at L.A. Rams, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Chicago at San Francisco, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

L.A. Chargers at Kansas City, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Dec. 9

Cincinnati at Dallas, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

WEEK 15

Thursday, Dec. 12

L.A. Rams at San Francisco, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Sunday, Dec. 15

Dallas at Carolina, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Kansas City at Cleveland, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Miami at Houston, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Cincinnati at Tennessee, 1 p.m. (FOX)

New England at Arizona, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Indianapolis at Denver, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Buffalo at Detroit, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Tampa Bay at L.A. Chargers, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Pittsburgh at Philadelphia, 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

Green Bay at Seattle, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Dec. 16

Chicago at Minnesota, 8 p.m. (ABC)

Atlanta at Las Vegas, 8:30 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 16

Thursday, Dec. 19

Cleveland at Cincinnati, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

Saturday, Dec. 21

Houston at Kansas City, 1 p.m. (NBC)

Pittsburgh at Baltimore, 4:30 p.m. (FOX)

Sunday, Dec. 22

N.Y. Giants at Atlanta, 1 p.m. (FOX)

New England at Buffalo, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Arizona at Carolina, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Detroit at Chicago, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Tennessee at Indianapolis, 1 p.m. (CBS)

L.A. Rams at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Philadelphia at Washington, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Denver at L.A. Chargers, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Minnesota at Seattle, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Jacksonville at Las Vegas, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

San Francisco at Miami, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

Tampa Bay at Dallas, 8:20 p.m. (NBC)

Monday, Dec. 23

New Orleans at Green Bay, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 17

Wednesday, Dec. 25

Kansas City at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m. (NETFLIX)

Baltimore at Houston, 4:30 p.m. (NETFLIX)

Thursday, Dec. 26

Seattle at Chicago, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video) Sunday, Dec. 29

N.Y. Jets at Buffalo, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Tennessee at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. (CBS) Green Bay at Minnesota, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Las Vegas at New Orleans, 1 p.m. (FOX) Carolina at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Dallas at Philadelphia, 4:25 p.m. (FOX) Miami at Cleveland, 8:20 p.m. (NBC) Monday, Dec. 30

Detroit at San Francisco, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN/ABC)

WEEK 18

Game Pool

San Francisco at Arizona, TBD Carolina at Atlanta, TBD Cleveland at Baltimore, TBD

Washington at Dallas, TBD

Kansas City at Denver, TBD

Minnesota at Detroit, TBD

Chicago at Green Bay, TBD Jacksonville at Indianapolis, TBD

Seattle at L.A. Rams, TBD

L.A. Chargers at Las Vegas, TBD

Buffalo at New England, TBD Miami at N.Y. Jets, TBD

Monday, Oct. 21

Baltimore at Tampa Bay, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

L.A. Chargers at Arizona, 9 p.m. (ESPN+)

Minnesota at Tennessee, 1 p.m. (CBS)

Atlanta at Denver, 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

Kansas City at Buffalo, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

N.Y. Jets at Jacksonville, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Washington at New Orleans, 1 p.m. (FOX)

Baltimore at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. (CBS)

N.Y. Giants at Philadelphia, TBD Cincinnati at Pittsburgh, TBD

New Orleans at Tampa Bay, TBD Houston at Tennessee, TBD

Eagles hope conditioning overcomes lack of numbers

By Jonathan Guth Staff writer jguth@observer-reporter

AVELLA – One thing Ryan Cecchini is certain of as it enters his 14th season as head coach at Avella: His team will be in shape.

In any contact sport, it is imperative to be in shape, but for the Eagles, it is a necessity that every single player can go four quarters without taking a play off.

“Every year, one of our goals is to be in great shape,” Cecchini said. “We don’t do a lot of hitting in practice because we can’t afford to lose people in practice with such low numbers, but make up for it with a lot of running and conditioning.”

Despite the low numbers, Avella went 4-6 overall and 2-5 in the Class A Black Hills Conference last season.

“I think our conditioning was evident last year because we were able to win four games, and in two of those, we finished with 13 guys on the field.”

Avella will move back to the Tri-County South Conference, which Cecchini says has boosted interest.

Cecchini said Jefferson-Morgan appears to be the early favorite, but he knows every game will be a battle and the emotions will be higher than playing in the Black Hills.

“When you are going against the Bishop Canevins, Fort Cherrys and other teams like that, who are a threat to win the WPIAL title every year, it’s hard for a small school like us walking out with 14-15 players to go against a team with 50-plus guys on the roster,” Cecchini said. “I think being in the Tri-County South has contributed to part of the uptick in the interest for our kids.”

In addition to J-M, the Eagles will play Bentworth, Beth-Center, California, Carmichaels, Mapletown and West Greene in conference action.

Despite battling the numbers game, Cecchini said the goal this, and every season, is to make the playoffs. Avella had not made the playoffs in 35 years when Cecchini took over, but it has qualified for the postseason four times in the last 13 years.

Cecchini is fully aware that just being well conditioned won’t get the Eagles in the playoffs, but he is confident in the skill players and linemen who will be returning, which starts at quarterback with sophomore Chas Rush.

“Chas has always been a quarterback coming through our system, but last year we had a really good senior quarterback

“ WHEN YOU ARE GOING AGAINST THE BISHOP CANEVINS, FORT CHERRYS AND OTHER TEAMS LIKE THAT, WHO ARE A THREAT TO WIN THE WPIAL TITLE EVERY YEAR, IT’S HARD FOR A SMALL SCHOOL LIKE US WALKING OUT WITH 14-15 PLAYERS TO GO AGAINST A TEAM WITH 50-PLUS GUYS ON THE ROSTER. I THINK BEING IN THE TRI-COUNTY SOUTH HAS CONTRIBUTED TO PART OF THE UPTICK IN THE INTEREST FOR OUR KIDS.”

RYAN CECCHINI, AVELLA FOOTBALL COACH

in Cole Jaworowski, so Chas was able to sit back, play as our wingback and learn under Cole. He did get a few reps here and there at quarterback, but he is ready to take the reins and run with it this year.”

Replacing Jaworowski will be a chore, as he was not only the quarterback but a firstteam, all-conference linebacker.

Senior Broden Hamm will start at fullback and wingback. He is expected to get the majority of the carries.

Avella will run the Wing-T offense, which is a rarity in football at the present time, but Cecchini is eager to see what Hamm and Rush can do running what has become an archaic offense.

“I think running the Wing-T is an advantage for us because people have to adjust to us and prepare for us special because they don’t usually see it any other time during the year,” Cecchini said. “We want to establish the run, and Broden and Chas will be a part of that.”

Helping to pave the way for Hamm and Rush will be senior Hayden Gatewood and junior Sawyer Cramer, who are set to start on the offensive and defensive lines, while Cramer could see time at linebacker.

Cody Day will start at tight end. With the Eagles running the Wing-T, the junior will be counted on as another lineman. Day is penciled in at defensive end.

“It all comes down to blocking, tackling and running, even with all these complex schemes,” Cecchini said. “We have to focus on the fundamentals. The linemen are the ones that make the engine go.”

Photos by Jonathan Guth/observer-rePorter

Avella quarterback Chas Rush tosses the ball to a running back during a voluntary offseason workout at Avella Football Field.

Avella head coach Ryan Cecchini works with Isaiah Stokes during a voluntary offseason workout at Avella Football Field.

Leps try to piece together another winner Belle Vernon Leopards

By Bill Hughes

For the Observer-Reporter newsroom@observer-reporter.com

After graduating 15 seniors – six of them now playing collegiately, including two at the FBS level – from the team that won WPIAL and PIAA Class 3A championships for the second year in a row, it would be easy for someone from the outside to think that the cupboard is bare at Belle Vernon.

Don’t tell that to head coach Matt Humbert.

“The biggest thing everyone will say is we had a big core of kids graduate, but we have a lot of kids returning who were instrumental in two state championships,” he said. “We have a good core that has returned and a good group of young kids.

“We just have to fit the puzzle pieces together. We are trying to fit the right pieces where they need to lay.”

With running back Quinton Martin off to Penn State and quarterback Braden Laux heading to Eastern Michigan, along with several other multi-year starters who are gone, backups and role players from a year ago will have to step into main roles while some inexperienced players will be called upon to contribute.

“The puzzle pieces the last two years, we knew who went where,” Humbert said. “Where they will fall this year, we will have a learning curve.

“We hope these kids will be able to pick things up quickly.”

Along with the move to Class 4A, Belle Vernon’s non-conference schedule is brutal.

The Leopards open Aug. 30 at defending WPIAL and PIAA Class 4A champion Aliquippa. Always-talented Central Valley comes to James Weir Stadium the following week before the Leopards head to McKeesport, the WPIAL 4A runner-up last season.

“Our inexperience will show as the first few weeks are not easy,” Humbert said. “We might have one of the toughest schedules in the WPIAL, but this is on par with the last few seasons as our non-conference schedule has been brutal.”

As if the non-conference schedule isn’t tough enough, the Leopards open Big 6 Conference play Sept. 27 at Thomas Jefferson.

“TJ is always a favorite, and I would like to think we are, too,” Humbert said. “We haven’t played Chartiers Valley in a while, and Trinity is on the rise. Ringgold will be on

“We played Deaubre a little bit of everywhere last season,” Humbert said. “He is one of the key pieces that will play in different places based on personnel.

“We have to coagulate to get it all. We have to get the pieces together, and hopefully by osmosis, it manifests itself. Our offensive line is a great example of getting the right puzzle pieces to fit together.”

The Leopards lost four two-year starters up front.

“I feel very optimistic about the kids who have competed over the summer,” Humbert said. “The lack of Friday night experience is the issue, and we have seven kids competing.”

Junior Ryan Kent returns the most experience up front. Juniors Jude Minniti, Timmy Schwerha, Tyler Zelenski and Triffanoff, sophomore Dalton Daumit and senior Josh Zdrojewski are the other six linemen looking to start with Kent.

“Ryan got a lot of time last year, and we feel confident with Jude,” Humbert said. “Eli, he could play fullback or guard on offense and inside backer and tackle on defense.”

Junior Ethan Baron and junior Shaun Roberts are also attempting to crack the offensive line rotation.

Alonzo Wade (outside linebacker), Crews (defensive back), and Lightfoot (defensive back) are the returning starters on defense and Dom Ghilani played the most snaps of any non-starter last season.

Other defensive backs with Cruz and Lightfoot include Curty Wade, Luca Ghilani, junior Nick Mahalko and Mertz.

the rise and is gaining traction while Laurel Highlands is working hard.

“It is hard to focus on (the Big 6) with who we play before we get to the conference. We have to focus on that prism first as there is a lot of diversity and deviation in styles weeks one through four.”

One player who quietly had a great season a year ago is senior running back Kole Doppelheuer, who rushed for 819 yards and 13 touchdowns despite sharing the backfield with Martin and Jake Gedekoh.

“Kole coming back, to the blind eye, people don’t know how instrumental he was,” Humbert said. “He did a lot of stuff really well for us.

“Alonzo Wade and Anthony Crews did a

lot, too. With Crews, most games last year, he and Martin were the two most dynamic players on the field.”

Wade, a senior, and Crews, a junior, will be joined in the starting lineup at wide receiver by Deaubre Lightfoot, with juniors Anthony DiCenzo and Caleb Horner as well as sophomore Luca Ghilani looking for playing time.

Replacing Laux at quarterback will be either junior Curty Wade, sophomore Jace Gedekoh or senior Chase Mertz. Wade took the most reps during the offseason.

Lightfoot will also see time at running back while junior Eli Triffanoff and senior Brady Gabrovsek are the fullbacks. Senior Dominic Ghilani and sophomore Cameron Jenko will be the tight ends.

Joining Wade at outside backer will be Doppelheuer, Chace Petrosky, and Skylar Gush while Mertz, Triffanoff, sophomore Dave Bergstedt, Jackson Alexander, and Gabrovsek are the middle linebackers.

Dominic Ghilani, Triffanoff, Jenko, and Alexander are the defensive ends, and Kent, Schwerha, Daumit, and Minniti are at defensive tackle.

Preston Rathaway will handle the kicking.

Belle Vernon is one of only a handful of teams not playing an official game Week 0, and Humbert said it will help.

“It gives us two good weeks of evaluation,” he said. “Considering how tough our schedule is, we need every practice rep we can get to get ready.”

Ed Thompson/For the observer-reporter

Belle Vernon and coach Matt Humbert would like to add more hardware to the trophy case this year.

Pordash believes Bearcats can make playoff push Bentworth Bearcats

By John Sacco

For the Observer-Reporter

It will be a little tougher to make the WPIAL Class A football playoffs this season with only three spots guaranteed a postseason berth.

That has motivated the spirits of Bentworth Bearcats head coach Dave Pordash.

Wild-card berths are available but that seems a bit chancy for those coming out of the Tri-County South Conference. WPIAL officials will select the wild-card entrants.

“I think we can make a run to the playoffs,” said Pordash, who is in his second year as head coach. “We should be able to finish in the top three if we keep getting better. We’re still young and inexperienced.”

Bentworth will compete in a new-look Tri-County South Conference with Avella, Beth-Center, California, Carmichaels, Jefferson-Morgan, Mapletown and West Greene.

In 2024, only three teams in each Class A conference will qualify for the WPIAL playoffs – down from four the past several seasons. Four at-large wild cards – picked from any of the four conferences – will be determined by the WPIAL football committee.

The Bearcats have three players returning – junior Ben Hays and seniors Alex Rusilko and Lucas Burt – who were members of the Tri-County South Conference football team a year ago.

Hays (5-11, 172) will play both wide receiver and defensive back. Rusilko (6-5, 318) should anchor the offensive and defensive lines. Burt is set at wingback and defensive end.

Pordash will also count on senior Tristan Hackinson (6-0, 153), a wingback and defensive back and senior Anthony Washington (5-6, 146) and senior Gavin Piasecki (6-1, 175), who will play tight end and defensive end.

“We expect big improvements in all of those positions,” Pordash said.

The coach added that newcomers will also aid Bentworth’s postseason push.

That group of Bearcats include freshman quarterback-linebacker Jacob Cavanaugh (5-5, 130) and freshman guard Gavin Haynes (6-4, 210) and freshman guard Lucas Malanosky (5-11, 255).

‘We (coaches) came in last year thinking the players were ready, that they were ready and football smart and they were

“ I THINK WE CAN MAKE A RUN TO THE PLAYOFFS. WE SHOULD BE ABLE TO FINISH IN THE TOP THREE IF WE KEEP GETTING BETTER. WE’RE STILL YOUNG AND INEXPERIENCED.”

DAVE PORDASH, BENTWORTH FOOTBALL COACH

not,” Pordash added. “We worked on things all offseason and they now have almost a year under their belts with our staff. We’ve worked on fundamentals and stuff we thought they knew but didn’t.”

Bentworth’s most significant personnel loss was quarterback Vitali Daniels, who was an all-conference performer after passing for 1,574 yards and 17 touchdowns. Daniels also was the Bearcats’ leading rusher with 563 yards.

Sophomore Ty Watson (5-9, 162) is expected to move into the starting quarterback role.

The coach said that while Bentworth was a passing team last season, it will strive to be about 50-50 between pass and run this season.

Pordash said California and West Greene are the favorites going into the season and that “Beth-Center will be up there” and that Avella moving in will be interesting.

“It’s a tough conference,” he added. “If our kids come to play, we’ll be OK.”

Bentworth went 3-7 overall and 2-5 in conference play in 2023.

The Bearcats defeated Brownsville, 426, in their opener. They also defeated Monessen, 28-0, and Carmichaels, 20-12, in conference play. They lost non-conference games to Avella, 22-15, and Leechburg, 2821.

Bentworth will open this season against Brownsville, which is playing an independent schedule. The Bearcats will host Class 2A Burgettstown and then play at Charleroi before opening conference action against top contender and defending champion California at home.

“A lot of kids only play one sport at Bentworth,” Pordash said. “Bentworth has a good soccer program. There aren’t may (small) schools that have both soccer and football teams.”

Photos by Jonathan Guth/observer-rePorter

Bentworth’s Anthony Washington takes off after receiving a handoff during a preseason workout.

Bentworth senior offensive tackle Alex Rusilko and the rest of the Bearcats’ linemen used garbage cans to simulate defensive linemen during preseason workouts.

Beth-Center Bulldogs

Ruscitto hopes freshmen can counter loss of Varesko

By Jonathan Guth Staff writer jguth@observer-reporter.com

FREDERICKTOWN – Tony Ruscitto has learned one or two things in his 49 years of coaching.

Obviously, he has learned more than that, but one thing that can’t be learned is how to keep seniors from graduating.

Beth-Center’s head coach will have to find a way to fill the void of tailback Ethan Varesko, who rushed for 1,237 yards on 122 carries and scored 13 touchdowns in eight games last year, including a 438-yard, four-touchdown performance against Bentworth.

Ruscitto had the offseason to look for ways to overcome Varesko’s graduation, but he didn’t expect the news he got four days prior to heat acclimatization week.

“Chris Erickson, who was going to be one of my captains, moved to Ohio,” Ruscitto said. “His little brother, who is a freshman, was a projected starter, so to find that out was a kick in the butt.”

The good news for Ruscitto and his staff is the Bulldogs have at least 13 freshmen, including running backs DeSean Whipkey and Enzo Brown.

“This freshmen class is a special group,” Ruscitto said. “They have been almost undefeated since they were Termites. They were undefeated the last two years in junior high, and the year before last they didn’t even give up a touchdown. They are just small. Our heaviest kid is probably 165, 170 pounds. They have work ethic and discipline. They just need to mature.”

Senior quarterback Jonah Sussan will be entering his third season as a starter and one of the captains.

Ruscitto is eager to see what Sussan can do in the passing game after a solid offseason of working on his throwing.

“I do what I call, quarterback school,” Ruscitto said. “I start it in January and have it every Sunday at six in the evening. Jonah and my sophomore quarterback (Chase Bebout) came every single Sunday. It has shown up immensely in our passing game.”

Sussan’s top options when he goes to the air will be three-year starter and senior Santino Revi and senior Luke Amon, who came out for the team midseason last year, but provides Sussan with a big target at wide receiver.

Despite the potential in Sussan’s passing,

“I HAVE ALWAYS CALLED MYSELF A MAKER OF MEN. I TURN BOYS INTO MEN. I ALSO HAVE AN EXPERIENCED STAFF WHO ARE ALL TEACHERS OF THE GAME, AND THAT’S GOING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR US.”

TONY RUSCITTO,

BETH-CENTER FOOTBALL COACH

Beth-Center will look to establish the run, which will allow Brown and Whipkey to show what they can do. Sussan gained 255 yards rushing and scored five touchdowns last year.

Sophomore Homer Headlee and junior Cyncere Cruse will provide some options at running back.

The Bulldogs will mix up their offensive packages, and when it comes to defense, being able to stop the run will be key. Beth-Center will return to play in the Class A Tri-County South Conference with Bentworth, California, Carmichaels, Jefferson-Morgan, Mapletown and West Greene.

Monessen has moved to the Class A Black Hills Conference and former conference mainstay Avella has returned to the TCS.

“I think the conference is going to be better than usual,” Ruscitto said. “Jefferson-Morgan looks pretty good. I think we have a shot to make the playoffs, but it’s only because of the work ethic these kids have. We needed to win one of our last two games to make the playoffs last year, but we had a lot of injuries last year. I think getting knocked out of the playoffs sort of put our program back a little bit, but I feel we’ll get it back.”

Ruscitto is nearing a half-century of coaching football, but he always looks forward to stepping on the field.

“I have always called myself a maker of men,” Ruscitto said. “I turn boys into men. I also have an experienced staff who are all teachers of the game, and that’s going to make a difference for us.”

Beth-Center hosts Riverview in nonconference play to open the regular season.

Veteran Beth-Center head coach Tony Ruscitto has a veteran quarterback in Jonah Sussan to lead the Bulldogs’ offense.

Making the C grade key to Bethel Park’s success

By Eleanor Bailey

The Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net

BETHEL PARK – Cs are more than an average grade at Bethel Park. They will spell success for the football team this season.

“Cohesiveness, continuity and consistency will be the big things,” said head coach Phil Peckich.

Though the Black Hawks qualified for the WPIAL playoffs last year, Peckish’s first season at the helm was less than successful. Bethel Park posted a 4-7 record.

“We had ups and downs,” Peckich admitted. “The biggest thing is we understand how inconsistent we were last year. The first year, you are learning on the run. We struggled with continuity with the day-in and day-out operations. There was a lot of inconsistency on the part of the coaches and players from the standpoint of being young and inexperienced. Growing pains. We’ve addressed some of those issues.

“With the players being a year older and being more developed and deeper, we will be able to really talk about goals. We know we play in a well-coached and talented conference and we know we have to show up and be ready to go.”

Peckich has the Black Hawks prepared to challenge for the conference championship because they return nine starters on offense and 10 on defense. He expects defending WPIAL champion and PIAA runner-up Peters Township and arch-rival Upper St. Clair to provide the stiffest opposition.

“TJ (Plack) does a great job over there at Peters Township and they return a lot of guys. Naturally, they are the defending champion, making them one of our toughest opponents but USC is our primary rival. When we talk about goals, we talk about the first being beating St Clair and the second winning a conference championship. Those are our goals and expectations.

“For us though, we are processed driven. We take a week-by-week approach. In practice, we compete against ourselves first. Then game week, it’s to prepare for that opponent. Putting forth a good effort and getting better.

“We are not backing down from our expectations,” he continued. “We have high goals. With the amount of players that we have returning, we have an experienced group to do that.”

BP’s experience begins with a trio of players that have started since arriving on the varsity scene as freshmen.

Clancy Orie anchors both sides of the line.

The 6-3, 255-pound senior is a Naval Academy commit and an all-state performer at defensive end. A tight end on offense, Orie recorded a team-high 65 tackles and five sacks to go along with 18 quarterback hurries last fall.

“He’s really fine-tuned his craft. His quicktwitch off the ball is his strength and he’s really worked hard on improving his ability to catch the ball,” said Peckich. “We expect him to make a big impact. It’s critical to get a big year out of him.”

Multi-purpose back Ryan Petras and quarterback Tanner Pfeuffer are expected to have tremendous seasons. Both are seniors.

Petras has been the conference MVP on offense for two years in a row. Last year, he caught 52 passes for 734 yards and rushed for 409 more yards on 53 carries. He scored 14 touchdowns.

Petras, who committed to play baseball as a sophomore, has multiple football offers.

Petras, who has been an All-State selection in football and baseball, is also a returning starter in the defensive secondary.

“Ryan is a tremendous player. A tremendous athlete,” Peckich said. “He’s a position-less player on offense and we move him to fit our needs on defense. He excels with great speed, is a vocal leader and smart player. He continues to grow. His best years are still ahead of him.”

Pfeuffer, likewise has “not scratched the surface” as to what he can do at the quarterback position. Last year, he passed for 1,888 yards and 21 touchdowns.

“Tanner has tons of experience and leadership,” Peckich said. “The biggest thing is that people underestimate how athletic he is. He has a tremendous competitive spirit. You have to be an Alpha to excel at this position and sport.”

BP has two reliable backups to Pfeuffer in Evan Devine and Brady Bruckner. Bruckner plays defensive back and will get reps at wide receiver along with veterans Jack Bruckner and Mitch Paschl. Kahanuola Kuewa and Santino Nowozeniuk are also targets for Pfeuffer.

JaVaughn Morre and David Dennison return as running backs. William Sabatos

also lends experience to the position.

On the O-Line, BP returns three starters in Santino LaMolinare and Frank O’Mara at tackle and Hunter Goelz at center. Bryan McGuire and Nate Purcell vied for the guard slots along with Denzel Meyers and Gavin Baluh.

Orie, Meyers, Jovian Smith, McGuire return on the D-Line. Purcell and a plethora of players provide BP depth.

In the secondary, the Black Hawks also display depth with Petras, Dennison, Bruckner, Kuewa, Moore, Sabatos and Jeremy Whitling.

Christian Davis is the lone veteran at linebacker but BP is excited about the talents of Charles Simmons and Tim Ondo.

“We expect big things from them,” Peckich said. “We are excited about our D-backs and linemen but we were not productive last year at linebacker so the changes we’ve made are good. We have guys who have paid their dues and are ready to play.”

ElEanor BailEy/the AlmAnAc

Phil Peckich watches his players warm up in preparation for summer workout drills. Peckich is entering his second season as the head football coach at Bethel Park High School.

Burgettstown Blue Devils

Blue Devils’ plan is to toe the line

By Chris Dugan Sports editor

dugan@observer-reporter.com

BURGETTSTOWN – Five-receiver formations, 30 passes per game, no huddles, a new trick play or two every week. Those modern offensive strategies are not part of Burgettstown’s time-honored formula for winning football.

If the Blue Devils are to return to the Class A playoffs this year, then Burgettstown will have to play the kind of football it has been known for: smart, physical and ground-oriented.

That’s the kind of football that has Burgettstown head coach Mark Druga sounding like Mike Tomlin or any other old-school NFL coach.

“We have to control the ball, not be foolish, not turn the ball over with interceptions and not put our offense in bad situations like 3rdand-10 or 3rd-and-15,” Druga explained. “It sounds simple – it’s almost a throwback – but it’s true. Many great teams excel at those facets of the game. It’s the small details that win games.”

A good line is a strength of any winning team, and that’s where Burgettstown hopes to bank its success this fall. The Blue Devils have a good group of linemen, but there is a definite lack of experience at the skill positions. Burgettstown lost its leading passer, top three leading rushers and its two leading pass catchers from a year ago, when the Blue Devils finished with a 5-5 record and lost to Union in the first round of the WPIAL playoffs.

“We’re going to be young at the skill positions, but the good thing is we have a full line,” Druga said. “Not all of the linemen have started, but they have varsity playing time. We’re going to rely on that.”

The line is built around the size and talents of seniors Teddy Gray (6-2, 305) and Sam Elich (6-5, 245). The Blue Devils’ other experienced linemen are seniors Wyatt Stevenson (6-2, 190), Caden Anderson (5-11, 210), junior Adam Bologa (5-6, 220) and junior Riley Dhans (6-0, 255). They will be the hub of the offense.

Finding replacements who can match the

Tight end Brian Charles should have a bigger role in the Burgettstown offense this season. The Blue Devils graduated their top two pass catchers from a year ago.

“Whoever is the quarterback, we’re not going to ask them to throw the ball 30 times a game,” Druga said.

age of 23.4 points per game. Druga said the latter number must decrease for Burgettstown to improve on last year’s break-even record.

production of graduated quarterback Brodie Kuzior, running back Rudy Brown and wide receivers Zack Schrockman and Ryan Murray will not be easy.

“I won’t lie. That seems like a Herculean task,” Druga admitted.

Burgettstown’s quarterback will come from a trio of candidates: sophomore Blake Neal, senior Travis Coles and freshman Dominick Stevenson. Neal was the junior varsity quarterback a year ago while Stevenson was the junior high signal caller. Coles, Druga said, could be used in roles similar to Kuzior, who passed for 739 yards and rushed for 785 last season.

Whoever wins the quarterback battle will have Danny Brown at wide receiver. Brown gained experience last fall playing in the slot on offense and he excelled on defense, grabbing a team-leading three interceptions. Brian Charles is back at tight end and will likely be utilized more in the passing game.

The ground game will be built around junior running back Colton County, who had only 17 carries in varsity action a year ago, when the Blue Devils could afford to give him seasoning in JV games.

The Blue Devils had a late-season surge a year ago, winning four of their final regular-season games. The Blue Devils gave up 55 points to Fort Cherry in the regular-season finale, 51 to Union in a playoff loss and an aver-

“There’s no chance, if it doesn’t,” Druga said.

With the experience on defense, especially with Gray at nose tackle and Elich, Charles and Coles at linebacker, Druga expects his stop unit to be better. The question marks are in the secondary, where Smith is the only returning starter.

Only three teams are guaranteed of making the playoffs out of the rugged Black Hills Conference, which has added Serra Catholic and Monessen. A fourth team can make it as a wild card. Druga says the Blue Devils will be able to control their future if they can control the football.

“We’re going to control the tempo and play sound defense to complement our offense,” he said.

Photos by Mark Marietta/For the observer-rePorter

Danny Smith led Burgettstown in interceptions a year ago and will be counted on to catch passes as a wide receiver this year.

Trojans are sound, ready to keep TCS title California Trojans

By John Sacco

For the Observer-Reporter

The California Trojans climbed to the top of the Class A Tri County South Conference last season.

They liked the view.

California went undefeated in conference play and save for a loss to Class AA Waynesburg in a non-conference battle early in the season, the Trojans would have finished the regular season undefeated.

Expectations remain high for California in 2024 and the Trojans enter the season favored to repeat their Tri County South championship.

The talent is at hand. Hard work has been put in throughout the offseason, spring and summer.

Veteran coach Ed Woods said the Trojans had a solid 32 players participate in the offseason weight training program.

“We have a sound team coming back,” Woods said. “They’re ready to go. We have 32 good football players.”

And some outstanding ones as well. Five returners were members of the 2023 all-conference team.

That group includes senior Lee Qualk, a talented and productive running back-linebacker; sophomore Malachi Peak, fullback and highly motivated defensive end; junior running back-linebacker Landon Abercrombie; senior Caden Monticelli, a 6-4 tight end-linebacker and senior two-way lineman Niko Georgagis.

That’s a strong core and they should help mitigate the graduation losses of quarterback-defensive back Jake Layhue, dynamo running back-linebacker Spencer Petrucci and receiver-linebacker Zack Geletei.

Woods said Qualk will be the tailback — and likely feature back — and that four returning offensive linemen provide leadership and experience.

Those veterans should help the transition to Logan Hartley as the starting quarterback.

“He received a lot of varsity playing time last season,” Woods said. “That will be beneficial to him.”

Woods expects his defensive line to perform as well as the offensive line and expects big things from the explosive Peak.

“He’s such a hard worker with a great work ethic,” Woods said of Peak. “He’s a solid, solid kid. He’s not real loud but he leads by example. He’s definitely one of our leaders.”

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter.coM

After rushing for 560 yards and scoring 13 touchdowns a year ago, Lee Qualk is primed to carry the load for the California offense.

In addition to Georgagis, the offensive line will feature senior Matthew Miller, junior Noah Layhue and junior Devon Harris.

California will compete in a new-look Tri-County South Conference with Avella, Bentworth, Beth-Center, Carmichaels, Jefferson-Morgan, Mapletown and West Greene.

In 2024, only three teams in each Class A conference will qualify for the WPIAL playoffs – down from four the past several seasons. Four at-large wild cards – picked from any of the four conferences – will be determined by the WPIAL football committee.

“I’m hearing Jefferson-Morgan is the team to beat,” Woods said. “Bentworth made some strides and Avella is moving in. Beth-Center and West Greene will be tough.”

In 2023, California won its first-round

“ EVERY YEAR WE TRY TO STAY WITH THINGS THAT HAVE WORKED. WE ADJUST TO PERSONNEL. WE CAN BE MULTIPLE ON OFFENSE AND DEFENSE. IF WE HAVE TO TWEAK, WE’LL TWEAK. DEFENSIVELY, WE’RE A LITTLE STRONGER AS A WHOLE. THE BACK END IS A LITTLE FASTER.”

ED WOODS, CALIFORNIA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COACH

playoff game, a 44-6 victory over Jeannette. The Trojans’ season ended in the WPIAL quarterfinals, dropping a 34-8 decision to Bishop Canevin.

In the conference last season, California scored more than 60 points twice, and more than 50 points three times.

The Trojans face a daunting non-conference schedule, opening at home against Serra Catholic, playing at Cornell, and facing Class AA Waynesburg, a 2023 playoff participant.

“No doubt, those are tough games,” Woods said. “I think after those three, we’ll

kind of know what kind of team we are.

“Every year we try to stay with things that have worked. We adjust to personnel. We can be multiple on offense and defense. If we have to tweak, we’ll tweak. Defensively, we’re a little stronger as a whole. The back end is a little faster.”

Woods’ staff includes Royce Sofran, assistant head coach; Darwin Manges, defensive coordinator; Brent Baker and P.J. Ross and volunteer coaches include Scott Faieta, Alex Braddock, Ray Huffman and Jon Bercosky.

Canon-McMillan Big Macs

Big Macs will be young, but could be good

By Chris Dugan Sports editor dugan@observer-reporter.com

CANONSBURG – Football at Canon-McMillan will have a different look this season.

First, there is a change to the venerable old stadium, where seats have been added, bringing the capacity to about 5,000, and a second pressbox has been erected.

Head coach Mike Evans is back for his 10th season, but you might not recognize the guys playing for the Big Macs. The roster is much different after graduation hit the Big Macs hard for the second consecutive year.

“The last two years, we’ve lost a ton,” Evans said. “If you had a Canon-McMillan Football Hall of Fame, we would have graduated 10 or 11 kids the last two years who were hall of famers. Not just good players, but record-breaking guys. We have to replace that.”

That shows where Canon-McMillan football had been for a long stretch of time and where it has been taken under Evans’ guidance. The Big Macs have qualified for the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs each of the last three seasons, which means the current senior class has never missed the postseason.

There are some big holes to fill this year. Chief among the graduation losses are Geno Calgaro, one of the best linebackers in the WPIAL a year ago and now at St. Francis (Pa.). Also missing are three-year starting quarterback Mikey Evans, who is at California, 1,000-yard rusher Zach Welsh and every wide receiver who caught a pass in varsity games last season.

That would make many coaches reach for the panic button, but not Evans.

“We’re young,” he said, “but they’re a con-

fident group. I tell people that I don’t know if we’ll win one game or 10. What I do know is there is a good feeling in that locker room. It was like this in 2019. We lost a ton of players that year, too. But this year doesn’t feel like that. We have a chance to be a good team. We can be good young.”

The Big Macs have some good building blocks. Senior guard Matthew McMahon, a Naval Academy recruit, has started more than 30 games and leads an offensive line that also includes guard Daisean Lacks and Jayden Boeltz, a returning starter who will move from guard to center. The Big Macs have to find two new tackles.

Junior tight end T.J. Sabatucci is a strong blocker who will be used more in the passing game and the Big Macs like the potential of sophomore Brayden Collins, who will give C-M an option for multiple tight end formations.

Evans is high on sophomore running back Troy Simpson, who could be the Big Macs’ next 1,000-yard runner. They’ve produced seven 1,000-yard running backs in the last nine years.

‘He’s a stud,” Evans said of Stimpson. “He has really good speed. He’s only a sophomore but spot-started on defense last year. If you want to play running back, then you should play here. We think he’s the next one.”

Directing the offense will be quarterback sophomore Ty Jansma, who started two games a year ago and brings athleticism to the position.

Defensively, the Big Macs improved last year when they went 6-5 and lost to North Allegheny in the first round of the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs. Canon-McMillan’s defense had two shutouts and held two other opponents to single-digit scoring.

Junior strong safety Marco Faieta was the leading tackler in the state among sophomores last year, according to Evans. The front seven should be strong again with Lacks, McMahon and Sabatucci on the line and Collins, Stimpson and juniors Logan Logsdon and Ryan Blynn at linebacker.

The Big Macs will play in a larger conference as Class 6A will have seven schools, with Central Catholic and North Allegheny

With more than 30 career starts, twoway lineman Matt McMahon (55) will be a key player as CanonMcMillan tries to return to the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs.

again expected to be the favorites to win the conference title. The Big Macs will play nonconference games against Peters Township, Upper St. Clair, South Fayette and Armstrong before getting into conference play.

“Our goal hasn’t changed,” Evans said. “We want to win a playoff game and have a home playoff game. That’s something we haven’t had. It gets frustrating but we’ve been building a foundation.”

Mark Marietta/ For the observer-reporter

Krull looking for more physicality from Mikes Carmichaels Mikes

By Rob Burchianti

For the Observer-Reporter

CARMICHAELS – Football is a contact sport, which is why Carmichaels coach Ryan Krull was concerned while he analyzed his squad from a season ago.

Krull coached Carmichaels for a nineyear stretch ending in 2019 when he stepped down and Ron Gallagher took over. Gallagher left after three seasons and Krull decided to step back in as coach, making last season a bit of a transition year for the Mikes who went 2-8 overall and 1-6 in the Class A Tri-County South Conference.

“The nice thing about having a year under our belt is we got a lot of time to identify what some of our problems were and then get them fixed,” Krull said. “I was really surprised. I thought all of the work we put in prior to the start of the season was right and that for the most part our kids were doing the right things.

“But the biggest area where we lacked was willingness to have collisions. As a football coach it pains me to say that. I’m not saying every single kid, but as a whole, as a team, we did not have a bunch of guys that were willing to run toward contact. In a sport like football you’re not going to be successful if you don’t have that. We just did not yearn for collisions and that was our biggest weakness.”

Krull made a change at the quarterback position and made it a point to push his team to be more physical.

“We spent the offseason trying to correct that as much as we can,” Krull said. “Obviously, there are rules in place so we can only do so much in that area but I thought we put a plan in place where our guys were able to do some drills to help improve that aspect of our game.

“Did it work? We’ll see.”

The Mikes will have a new quarterback this year in junior Cannon Bupka.

“Cannon Bupka was a backup quarterback and played some receiver as a freshman. Last year he just played receiver,” Krull said. “We decided to move him back to quarterback. The guy we had back there, AJ Donaldson, will be transitioning to receiver which is more of a natural position for him.

“Just like any quarterback we’ve ever had here, the No. 1 thing is they’ve got to take care of the football. We ask our quarterbacks to be able to advance the football with their legs and their arm. … He’s got to be able to run the ball effectively.”

“ THE NICE THING ABOUT HAVING A YEAR UNDER OUR BELT IS WE GOT A LOT OF TIME TO IDENTIFY WHAT SOME OF OUR PROBLEMS WERE AND THEN GET THEM FIXED.”

Krull sees plenty of potential in Bupka.

“He’s a well-built kid. He’s about 6-3, 180 pounds and he can run the ball well and then we’re going to ask him to throw it at opportune times,” Krull said. “He has all the tools to do it. His maturity over the last couple years has really improved and he wants to be the guy playing quarterback. It’s not an easy task. I think he’s done a good job to this point handling what we’ve put in front of him.”

Carmichaels will use a running back by committee approach at the start of the season.

“We’re a team that has to totally embody what a team is,” Krull said. “We have some good players but we don’t have the guy that runs a 4.5 40 and can make everybody miss and make everybody that missed their assignment still look OK. We have to have a kind of all-hands-on-deck approach where everybody’s got to do their job all the time,

RYAN KRULL, CARMICHAELS FOOTBALL COACH

regardless of the situation or the circumstances, no matter how tired they are, or we’re not going to have the success that we want..”

Juniors Will Murray and Gage Kundly and seniors Parker Hewtt and Robbie Wilson-Jones lead the way in the backfield.

“We’ve got several good running backs and that’s no different than years past. It was always a stable of backs,” Krull said. “We’re expecting major contributions from all four of those backs. Parker also stands out as one of the leaders of the team.”

Carmichaels will try to work up a passing game to balance the offense.

“We’re going to get our receivers, mainly Brandon Yekel, Ryder Kreig and Donaldson, more involved than years past,” Krull said. “We’re trying to be creative with some

high-percentage ways to get them the ball and let them work in space.”

The key to the offensive will be the line, according to Krull.

“The position group most responsible for an offense’s success is the line,” Krull stressed. “I think the singular position would be the quarterback but as a position group there’s nothing more important than the offensive line.

“I’m optimistic about our line,” Krull said. “It’s going to be an issue of guys having a nastiness and a willingness to do what needs to be done. It’s ugly in the trenches. It’s tough, difficult, there’s a lot of communication that has to go on. They’re going to be tired and still make sure that their eyes are up and they’re communicating with each other and doing the things that they know we need to do.”

Carmichaels will again compete in the TCS.

“It’s the same faces we’ve seen for a long time,” said Krull who declined to pick a favorite. “Our main focus has to be us. … We need to worry more about ourselves. Then wherever the cards fall, they’ll fall.”

Carmichaels quarterback Cannon Bupka (3) flips the ball to Ryder Kreig during a recent Mikes practice.

Photos by Rob buRchianti /heRald-standaRd

Carmichaels’ AJ Donaldson (12) runs the ball against Beth-Center last year. Donaldson will move from quarterback to wide receiver for his senior season.

Experienced Cougars adding to foundation Charleroi Cougars

By Bill Hughes

For the Observer-Reporter

newsroom@observer-reporter.com

A season ago, Ty Aeschbacher and his coaching staff got off to a late jump in taking over the Charleroi football program as he wasn’t hired until late February, only six months before the first game.

The Cougars did not win a game in 2023, but that was last year, and now with a full offseason to prepare his team, Aeschbacher is pleased with the improvements he has seen.

“It has been great to see the guys consistently coming (to the weight room) and to see their max numbers jump.

“We just maxed out this past week, and I am super happy with how the offseason went.”

One of the biggest struggles for Charleroi last year was tackling, so Aeschbacher and his staff used a unique approach to tidy things up.

“We put a huge emphasis on tackling last year and want to improve this year,” he said. “With us having our wrestling room at the gym, we were able to get in there and teach some drills. Hopefully, this helps and also brings toughness.”

The Cougars were extremely young last season, and the experience of the 2023 season should do nothing but help in every facet of the game.

“Last year, we were younger,” Aeschbacher said. “But having a full offseason, this is the first time they have had the same system year after year.

“Between 7-on-7s, practices, seeing film, we won’t have as many missed assignments. We will come out on a better page and assignment.”

Aeschbacher said there is a nice mix of experience and youth on this year’s team.

“I feel good with where we are up front and with some skill players as well,” he said. “We will have some familiar faces shine and we will get some younger guys involved. We have to build on our foundation and keep it going.”

The Cougars return eight starters on offense and seven on defensive.

A key offensively will be up front, and Aeschbacher pointed out several returners in senior Miguel Acevedo, junior Jack Cardenas, and junior Drake Lilly.

“Miguel is a super important part of the line and anchors us,”

Aeschbacher said. “He could be at tackle or guard. Last year, Jack played everywhere from running back to tight end to tackle and then center. He is a good leader.

“Drake moved around last year from center to the other line positions and is starting to come into his own.”

Junior quarterback Jackson Keranko is back at quarterback, and Aeschbacher is excited to see his signal caller’s growth.

“I can’t say enough good things about him,” Aeschbacher said. “We have seen how much he has grown mentally and physically.”

The other returning starters on offense are senior running back Bob DiPiazza, junior back Connor Luckock and senior receiver Daniel Nusida. Those three, along with Keranko, will serve as captains.

“Bob was a key rotational back for us,” Aeschbacher said. “Connor is a great staple, and Daniel is sure-handed and gets his hands on the ball.”

Other offensive players

Aeschbacher mentioned were receivers, senior Noah Pletcher, junior Jamael Payne, and sophomore Braden Lunger as well as junior running back Nate Rock.

The returning starters on defense are DiPiazza at middle linebacker, Payne, Pletcher, and Lunger in the secondary, Nusida, who started at both outside linebacker and strong safety, Lilly at end and Luckock at outside linebacker.

“DiPiazza does a great job of having a feel for the game,” Aeschbacher said. “He is the heart of our defense.”

Rock saw plenty of time last season at outside linebacker and he will be there again this season.

Three other players mentioned

were end Kaden Pace-Davis and linemen Jerimiah Kearns and Peyton Reed.

Senior Landon Barcus, an all-conference kicker a year ago who will play soccer at Pitt-Greensburg, returns to handle the placekicking duties.

The Cougars are in the Class 2A Century Conference with Washington, Waynesburg, Carlynton, Keystone Oaks, Seton LaSalle, and Sto-Rox.

“Wash High is always at the top, and Seton LaSalle looked impressive at 7-on-7s,” Aeschbacher said.

and more experienced team in his second

“Waynesburg has shown a lot of growth and has guys back.

“It is always a very competitive league, and it is important to continue to grow and go from there.”

The Cougars open the season when they travel across the Monongahela River to take on long-time rival Monessen.

“It is great for the communities that the game is happening again,” Aeschbacher said. “It is for bragging rights, and it also gave the guys extra motivation during the offseason.”

buRchianti

Chartiers-Houston Buccaneers

With accountability, wins will come for C-H

By Kaci Alderson For the Observer-Rporter.com newsroom@observer-reporter.com

HOUSTON – The Chartiers-Houston football team has undergone several changes in the past few months staff-wise, personnel-wise and preparation-wise.

Following an 0-10 2023 season, Chartiers-Houston made a change and hired fiveyear Buccaneer varsity assistant Dan Lis as its new head coach. Lis is a 2012 graduate of Chartiers-Houston and a 2016 graduate of Washington & Jefferson College. He played football at both places.

Lis noted the offseason preparation as a key change and factor in fostering success, especially after losing starting pieces to graduation.

“The work we put in during the offseason will really help us this year,” said Lis. “We lost a lot of the offensive line last year so some of the biggest strengths that we have this year are returners being able to play in a similar role as last year and leading the new guys.”

The key returners for the Buccaneers are senior offensive and defensive lineman Paul Williamson, senior wide receiver and defensive back Nate Brezinski and junior quarterback Aaron Walsh.

“Those are the guys that have been here all offseason. Even with the other sports they play, guys like Aaron and Paul were able to make it to a majority of our offseason meetings and practices.”

“ I WANT THIS GROUP TO WIN IN THE WORST WAY, PROBABLY MORE THAN I WANT TO WIN MY FIRST GAME AS A HEAD COACH JUST BECAUSE AT THE END OF THE DAY, WE DO THIS FOR THE MEMORIES AND NOSTALGIA, AND WE WANT THEM TO REMEMBER BEING THE FIRST GROUP TURNING AROUND THE PROGRAM.”

DAN

LIS, CHARTIERS-HOUSTON FOOTBALL COACH

The Leadership Academy Program was started in February and included 10 weeks of meetings designed to teach players leadership skills.

“We are trying to build leadership skills in the football program that transition into other sports kids do and ultimately, when they leave Chartiers-Houston, they can take some of those qualities they learned and apply it to whatever they might do.”

Lis is looking to turn the discipline in the offseason into season results.

“Cliché, but, we just want to compete,” said Lis. “I think if we could become competitors on Friday nights and be very well-prepared throughout the week for our opponent, we will inherently have a much better season.”

The Buccaneers last made the WPIAL Playoffs in Class 2A during the 2021 season, but Lis’ ultimate goal is to get over the hump of last season and get the group of six seniors a win.

Leaning on the veteran experience and buying into a new program has been a change, but one that was embraced with open arms by players in the program.

Two new offseason programs implemented by Lis were the Ultimate Buccaneer Accountability Program and the Leadership Academy Program. The Ultimate Buccaneer Accountability Program was put in place to track the other sports players are participating in, the community service players complete, the number of workouts players come to and whether or not players are achieving passing grades.

“About half of our team was in the passing side of our accountability program which is huge for our first year. We are hoping to get to 100 percent at some point, but this was a great start,” noted Lis.

“This group of six seniors has not won a game since October of 2022,” said Lis. “I want this group to win in the worst way, probably more than I want to win my first game as a head coach just because at the end of the day, we do this for the memories and nostalgia, and we want them to remember being the first group turning around the program.”

The Buccaneers kick off the season Friday at home in a nonconference game against Jefferson-Morgan.

C-H will play again in the Class A Black Hills Conference, which includes, among others, defending WPIAL champion Fort Cherry, Bishop Canevin, Serra Catholic and Monessen, the latter two conference newcomers.

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter

New Chartiers-Houston head coach Dan Lis directs traffic for a preseason drill.

Chartiers Valley Colts

Resilience, fortitude enable CV to clear hurdles

By Eleanor Bailey

The Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net

During practices leading up to training camp, Aaron Fitzpatrick posted a word on the chalkboard and provided an inspirational quote to guide his Chartiers Valley football players for the week.

While determination, camaraderie, commitment, consistency and fun were among the representative terms, Fitzpatrick emphasized resilience and fortitude.

“If the Xs and Os aren’t going the way I want, I want the boys to understand that they are stronger, tougher so that when life hits them with adversity, they will have become resilient because we’ve preached to them to believe in yourself and overcome those moments,” Fitzpatrick said.

As for fortitude, Fitzpatrick explained by using a quote he read. “Basically it says that we as people saw the storm coming. As the waves would drown most, we pulled out surfboards and rode out the tempest. We were prepared. That’s what we are trying to do here. Prepare the players.”

In 2024, the Colts must be ready for bigger challenges. Because of the WPIAL realignment, Chartiers Valley will compete in Section 3 with dominant Class 4A powers Belle Vernon and Thomas Jefferson, not to mention Trinity and Ringgold. The Leopards are the defending WPIAL and PIAA champions while the Jaguars have won 10 district and five state titles.

“There are all teams to be respected and we are excited to play them,” Fitzpatrick said. “As tall as they may be, these tasks are what we want to take on. We have to step up. We don’t want to be a team that lays down or a group that cannot handle these moments.

We will fight our way through it.

“Last year, we showed we can be competitive and finish games. We can hang. After going to the playoffs we got a taste of it. We want to be there again. We want more success. We just need to play and stay competitive for four quarters, play with consistency and work through the struggles. We are planning for better results.”

Despite a 3-8 record, the Colts qualified for the playoffs last year because all of their victories came in the Parkway Conference. CV lost to Mars, 44-19, in the first round of the Class 4A playoffs.

Because this is the third year under Fitzpatrick, the Colts have high expectations.

“We are real excited about where we are. Because this has been three years in the making, we are expecting results this year. Time’s up,” Fitzpatrick said. “We believe we can be a dangerous team.”

The Colts have plenty of weapons upon which to rely on offense.

Mike Lawrence was embroiled in a quarterback battle with Luke Miranda during training camp. According to Fitzpatrick, both juniors exhibit “pure athleticism” and are “dual threats” because of their mobility and arm strength. Both will start on defense: Lawrence at outside linebacker. Miranda at free safety.

Tayshaun Lewis looks to be CV’s premier running back as well as cornerback in the secondary. The junior was a standout sprinter and long jumper on the track team.

“Tayshaun is extremely shifty. He has vision unlike any I have coached or seen. He also can turn on a dime,” Fitzpatrick said.

In addition to Lewis, Fitzpatrick says that the Colts have “horses in the stable” and their skills will be utilized depending on what offensive packages CV utilizes.

A tight end, Justin Terhune will be used more as an H-back while Tristan Milligan will be used in the traditional sense. Braedyn Stern, John Papariella and sophomore Zach Efthimiades contribute to the depth in the backfield.

Julius Best and Jake Lewis, both basketball players, as well as the Czarnicki brothers, Jack and Dylan, headline the receiving corps. Best has been the team’s top performer at 7-on-7 competitions this summer.

“Julius is a smooth route runner. He’s able to get up and get a ball. He has a high ceiling,” Fitzpatrick said. “Jake is another workhorse. He has grit and tenacity. The Czarnickis are interchangeable. When it comes to possession, they are a solid tandem. Reliable. They run through traffic and do the dirty work.”

Robbie Modelo at tackle and Joel Buerkle at center have done the job in the trenches in the past along with Nicholas Evangelista. Tristin Mayo has experience and will be utilized at guard or tackle along with Anthony Mousessian, Destyn Zrelak and Nicholas Crisanti.

“We’ll have a good athletic line. Those guys are the most important piece in the puzzle because they are the heartbeat and soul of the team. They have put in the extra work and become leaders because they believe and bought into what we have established.”

On the defensive line, Modelo is the anchor as he possesses the most experience.

“He has stepped up in overall leadership and work ethic,” Fitzpatrick said. “He’s a guy that has been through it.”

At linebacker, the Colts look to fill the void created by Tyler Glover’s matriculation to Duquesne University with Terhune. A junior, he started last year and saw playing time as a freshman. Tyler Hughes, Papariella, Lawrence, Dyan Czarnicki and Chad Wright bring experience to the middle of the defense as well.

In addition to Miranda, Best and Lewis anchor the defense at cornerback and free safety. Jack Czarnicki and Aiden McGettigan

ElEanor BailEy/the AlmAnAc

Fort Cherry Rangers

Rangers looking to fill void of unsung hero

By Jonathan Guth Staff writer jguth@observer-reporter.com

Ask anyone around the WPIAL who is Fort Cherry’s best football player and the answer is a quick two syllables … Matt Sieg.

With all due respect to his teammates, that assessment is accurate, especially when it comes to making plays, but the player that held the glue together for the Rangers during last year’s run to the WPIAL Class A title and a berth in the state championship game didn’t appear in too many headlines.

Lou Ryan, who graduated in June, was a starting guard and middle linebacker for Fort Cherry. Sieg rushed for 2,387 yards with 41 touchdowns and passed for 1,671 and 20 scores, but Ryan was up front knocking the opposition out of the way as Sieg directed the offense.

Ryan was also instrumental in a revitalized Rangers defense that allowed an average of 14.9 points per game en route to a 15-1 record. Fort Cherry’s lone blemish was a 42-8 setback to Steelton-Highspire in the state title game.

“Lou is going to be missed in so many ways,” Fort Cherry coach Tanner Garry said. “Even as a freshman, Lou was one of those kids that was a leader. Everyone had leaned on him for that since he was a freshman, and we are going to need someone to step up and take over that role. I appreciate all he gave us for four years, and you can’t replace a guy like that.”

Ryan isn’t the only inside linebacker that the Rangers will be looking to replace, as Corey Bouchille also graduated.

“We graduated four or five guys up front, and we are trying to build that up, first and foremost,” Garry said. “Everything rolls from those guys up front. We are actually going to be much bigger up front this year, and are excited to let these kids go and see what they can do.”

Sieg won’t need much push from his offensive line to get going as the junior and four-star recruit has offers from multiple Power 5 colleges as a quarterback and free safety.

In two years of high school football, Sieg has rushed for 4,372 yards, thrown for 2,892 and scored 76 touchdowns. He wasn’t too shabby on defense last year with 20 tackles and three interceptions, including

one pick six. He also returned two punts for touchdowns.

Garry knows that defensive coordinators will be doing all they can to make sure that Sieg doesn’t beat them, but Fort Cherry has multiple running backs and wide receivers who can take some of the load off Sieg’s very capable shoulders.

Ethan Faletto rushed for more than 1,100 yards last year as a senior, which leaves the door open for senior Nate Heirendt and sophomore Ryan Huey. Senior Shane Cornali returns at wide receiver after catching 34 passes for 672 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Evan Rogers pulled in 7 of his 16 re-

ceptions for scores. Senior Braydon Cook (15 receptions) is another key cog at wideout.

“We know people are going to key on Matt, but we are confident in the guys we have coming back at running back and wide receiver,” Garry said.

The Rangers return to the Class A Black Hills Conference, which added Monessen and Serra Catholic but lost Avella, Carlynton and OLSH.

Bishop Canevin, Burgettstown, Chartiers-Houston and Cornell are the holdovers from last season.

“We won’t play OLSH in conference ac-

tion this year, but we do have them on the schedule,” Garry said. “I think we are in a pretty solid conference. Six of the seven schools in our conference made the playoffs last year, and there are not too many conferences in the WPIAL that can say that. Obviously, it’s not hard to look at the big picture, but it really doesn’t matter because you need to beat everybody. We played Bishop Canevin two times last year, and both games were really tough. We don’t expect anything any different this year.”

Junior

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter

Senior wide receiver Braydon Cook (15) gives Fort Cherry quarterback Matt Sieg a big-play threat.

J-M has expectations, seeks better start Jefferson-Morgan Rockets

By John Sacco

For the Observer-Reporter

A season ago, not a lot was being expected from the Jefferson-Morgan High School football team.

Then the Rockets went and qualified for the WPIAL Class A playoffs.

Welcome expectations.

“My expectations are for us to compete every day at a high level against each other, individually and as a group, and continue looking for competition,” said Shane Ziats, in his second season as head coach.

“We have all of our skill players coming back. We’re going to take what the opposing defense is going to give us. We would like to be balanced running and passing but it will depend on what we see the defense trying to do.”

The Rockets went 6-5 overall and 5-2 in the Class A Tri-County South Conference to finish in third place. Jefferson-Morgan lost to Fort Cherry, the eventual WPIAL champion, 50-16, in the opening round of the playoffs.

After opening the 2023 season with three losses in their first four games, the Rockets reeled off four consecutive victories over Beth-Center, Bentworth, Mapletown and Monessen, winning by margins of 34, 21, 29 and 34 points.

“I think we got better as a team,” Ziats said. “The kids got into the idea they could win football games.”

Jefferson-Morgan will compete in a newlook Tri-County South with Avella, Bentworth, Beth-Center, California, Carmichaels, Mapletown and West Greene.

“I feel it will be a competitive conference,” Ziats said. “Teams will come at you in the Tri-County South. We need to take the next step. The kids started to believe in themselves last season and that belief needs to grow this year.

“Any given Friday you can lose here. California is going to be tough. West Greene is good and Avella brings an unknown into the conference.”

In addition to their conference games, the Rockets will play Chartiers-Houston, Burgettstown and Waynesburg in non-conference games.

Jefferson-Morgan remains a relatively young team. The Rockets enter the season with seven seniors, 11 juniors, six sophomores and 10 freshmen – 27 of 34 players (79.4 percent) are underclassmen.

“We have all of our skill players coming back,” Ziats said.

He pointed to players including senior Houston Guesman (5-10, 160), a quarterback-linebacker; junior Deakyn DeHoet (6-0,170), a wide receiver-defensive back; and junior running back-linebacker John Woodward (5-11, 175).

Also returning are senior Jase Bedillion (6-3, 185), a tight end-defensive back; and juniors Levi Heath (6-1, 225) and Eli Hill (6-0, 270), both two-way linemen.

All six are returning members of the 2023 Tri-County South Conference Team.

Ziats is assisted by Ron Gallagher, Nick Pawuk, Jake Rush, Calab Gallagher, Tom

Sandala, Jake Nice and Brandon Lawless.

Ziats chuckled when it was suggested by several Tri-County South coaches that Jefferson-Morgan is the most legitimate threat to California repeating as conference champions.

“We’re just going to compete and hope to keep getting better,” Ziats said. “We go weekto-week.”

Ziats said one of his goals is for the Rockets to be more successful in non-conference games this season.

Jefferson-Morgan won only one of three games against non-conference opponents,

defeating Chartiers-Houston, 42-30, in the season opener but losing to Waynesburg, 19-7, and Jeannette, 31-20.

The Raiders will play at Chartiers-Houston to open the season and will also battle Class AA Waynesburg (away) and Burgettstown (home) in non-conference play. In 2024, only three teams in each Class A conference will automatically qualify for the WPIAL playoffs – down from four the past several seasons. Four at-large wild cards –picked from any of the four conferences –will be determined by the WPIAL football committee.

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter

Houston Guesman ran for more than 700 yards and scored nine touchdowns a year ago.

Mapletown wants a healthy dose of wins

By Chris Dugan Sports editor dugan@observer-reporter.com

MAPLETOWN – They say that if you follow high school football long enough, then you’ll see things you never saw before.

Mapletown coach George Messich, who is entering his 42nd season at his alma mater, subscribes to that theory.

Two years ago, Mapletown had an undefeated regular season, its first since 1968.

Last year, an incredible string of injuries turned what could have been another good season for the Maples into a frustrating 3-7 campaign after starting the year with two wins.

The rash of injuries hit so hard that at one point Messich and his coaching staff took a linemen out of a game, switched his jersey to that of an eligible receiver, and while on the sideline showed him how to take handoffs.

“In all my years of coaching, I never saw so many injuries,” Messich said. “And all of them were freak injuries.

“During the undefeated year, we didn’t have one injury, not even a minor one. Everybody played the whole year. Then, last year, it started in the first game. I don’t care who you are, there’s not a Class A or Double-A team that can lose their top three players and be the same football team.”

While the injuries decimated the Maples last fall, it also opened the door to valuable playing experience for many underclassmen who had nothing to lose and experience to gain. Many of those players are back this year, more seasoned and confident.

Messich likes his offensive line, which returns six lettermen including four starters. The returnees are seniors Ashtin Nesselroad (5-11, 190) and Caleb Landers (5-11, 280), juniors Chase Taylor (6-2, 285), Coltin Halbert (5-9, 220) and Cameryn Shaffer (6-3, 220) and sophomore Kaden Lotspeich (5-9, 215).

“Our offensive line, as a group, is going to be very good,” Messich said. “All of the linemen lived in the weight room and they are nice-sized kids for a Class A team. This is a good group. They’re all very competitive.”

Mapletown has the option of using several different quarterbacks, including senior Brock Evans, who has been a starter at wide receiver and in the backfield, and

“ WE HAD GUYS GET EXPERIENCE LAST YEAR. WHAT I LIKE IS THEIR WILLINGNESS TO WORK. THEY WANT TO BE FOOTBALL PLAYERS. I BELIEVE THAT ANYBODY CAN BE A FOOTBALL PLAYER IF THEY WANT, BY PUTTING IN HARD WORK IN THE OFFSEASON AND THE FALL.”

GEORGE MESSICH, MAPLETOWN FOOTBALL COACH

sophomore Carson Vanata. Both players will be used at running back. Evans was the third-leading rusher last year and also caught 13 passes.

Senior Spencer Yeager also has experience at quarterback.

Senior Josh Howard started the last two years and will play running back and wide receiver. Seniors John Vanata and Ty Howard, along with junior Colton McKnight, will be utilized at the skill positions.

Messich likes the potential of his two inside linebackers, Nesselroad and John Vanata, and Evans on the outside. Mapletown will build its defense around those three.

The experienced linemen will be two-way players but there were spots in the secondary that will be decided during camp and a scrimmage.

“We had guys get experience last year,” Messich said. “What I like is their willingness to work. They want to be football players. I believe that anybody can be a football player if they want, by putting in hard work in the offseason and the fall.”

Only three teams from the Tri-County South Conference will automatically qualify for the playoffs this year. Messich said California and Jefferson-Morgan are the early favorites. Can Mapletown be the other playoff qualifier? Even with all of Messich’s experience, he’s at a loss to predict how good his team can be.

“There are days when we look really good, offensively and defensively” he said. “Then there are other days …

“There are big questions that will be answered in the scrimmage, like how aggressive will we be when going at full speed? The potential is there for us to OK. The maturity level with this team makes a coach feel good. I’ve seen these kids grow up and mature.”

AdAm Huckestein/For tHe observer-reporter

Carson Vanata and Mapletown hope to rise to the challenge and grab one of the playoff spots from the Class A Tri-County South Conference.

McGuffey has new coach, but many options remain McGuffey Highlanders

By Joe Tuscano For the Observer-Reporter newsrooom@observer-reporter.com

When Nate Parry was hired to replace Ed Dalton as McGuffey’s football coach, he knew what he was getting into and what the expectations would be.

Dalton had taken a struggling program and turned it into an annual playoff qualifier. He installed the triple-option running game that gave opposing defensive coordinators fits trying to stop. The Highlanders’ running game, coupled with a sound defense, regularly produced a playoff season.

Parry was the designer of the triple-option running game and will use it again this season.

“I certainly have big shoes to fill,” said Parry. “Coach Dalton is in my opinion the best coach in the whole state. I learned a lot from him. I think he runs a year-round program better than anyone I know. I’m excited for the (opportunity). We’ve had success over the last decade and I just want to keep it going.”

And yes, he believes in calling one, two and even three timeouts before the halfway point of the first quarter, something that was common under Dalton.

“I can’t say I ever had a problem with that,” Parry said. “If you have a problem, you should fix it right away instead of waiting to fix it. Don’t be surprised if you see me having similar habits as my predecessor.”

The Highlanders will not only have a new coach but a new classification when the season begins.

Parry will have his hands full as McGuffey moves up to Class 3A.

“

NATE PARRY, McGUFFEY

The key piece to this year’s offense is Logan Carlisle, who missed a big chunk of last season with a shoulder injury and will quarterback the triple-option offense.

“We have 15 seniors and they’ve been successful since they were in diapers,” said Parry with a chuckle. “They were really good in youth, middle school and now varsity.”

Seniors halfback Malachi Ealy (5-10, 190) and fullback Aiden O’Dell (6-0, 200) provide the 1-2 punch out of the backfield. Senior Danny Furmanek (5-8, 140) and junior Michael Makripodis (5-10, 190) are battling for the other halfback position.

“With Logan at quarterback, that gives us some things we can do differently,” Parry said. “We don’t want to get away from our offense because there were games over the years we stayed in against teams that were stronger than us or we’ve won games against teams that maybe had a little more talent, because of our offense. Our kids have bought into that.”

McGuffey returns four starting linemen: senior tackle Reno Presto (6-2, 245), senior center Reid Teagarden (5-10, 180), senior tackle Memphis Haydrych (6-0, 275) and senior guard Rian Johnson (6-1, 255).

Dalton guided the Highlanders into the WPIAL playoffs for the past five years. McGuffey had lost 15 consecutive games before Dalton’s arrival. He led them to making the WPIAL playoffs in nine of the last 12 seasons. The Highlanders won multiple conference championships under Dalton and went into the final week of the regular season with a chance to win at least a share of the conference title in each of the last five years.

Dalton has stayed on as the school’s athletic director.

With a 224-144-1 career record, including 78-45 at McGuffey, Dalton is one of the winningest coaches in Washington County history. His final season saw the Highlanders go 5-1 in the Class 2A Century Conference and 8-4 overall.

Wideouts will include senior Lincoln Johnson and either senior Kolt McGowan (6-1, 165) or senior Sheldon Hanna (6-2, 165).

Parry said he will have a number of twoway players because of the low number of underclassmen. Teagarden and O’Dell return at inside linebacker. Senior Levi Shaffer (5-9, 165) and Ealy could be on the outside. Carlisle and Johnson will handle the cornerback positions while McGowan and Hanna will be used in the secondary. McGuffey opens the season Friday with a nonconference game against longtime rival Washington. The Highlanders and Prexies played twice last year, once in the playoffs. McGuffey won’t have to travel far for its second game, at Trinity, in another nonconference contest.

Experienced Monessen moves to new conference Monessen Greyhounds

By Bill Hughes

For the Observer-Reporter newsroom@observer-reporter.com

Now entering his fourth season at the helm of the Monessen Greyhounds football program, head coach Wade Brown has seen growth with the team.

This season, he hopes the Greyhounds take it one step further, although he knows the team is in for a tough game weekly in its new league, the Class A Black Hills Conference.

“It is going to be a meat-grinder each week, and I call our conference the SEC of Class A,” Brown said. “Fort Cherry was the WPIAL champion and state runner-up a year ago, Bishop Canevin is always a power, Serra Catholic was a WPIAL Double-A champ and state runner-up a few years ago, and we haven’t beaten Cornell since I have been here.

“A goal is to return to the playoffs, but we will have to stay healthy and disciplined the whole year, and we have to be ready for what entails.”

The other teams in the Black Hills Conference are Burgettstown and Chartiers-Houston.

Brown is excited about the experience Monessen has back.

“We have eight starters returning on both offense and defense,” he said. “There are others who played a lot, as well.”

A key will be sophomore quarterback Dennis Hawkins III, an athletic 6-3 reserve a year ago that Brown hopes to see growth from.

“He is a good one, and he is very athletic,” Brown said. “He can windmill dunk (on the basketball court) already, and we hope his athleticism helps us on the field.”

“ A GOAL IS TO RETURN TO THE PLAYOFFS, BUT WE WILL HAVE TO STAY HEALTHY AND DISCIPLINED THE WHOLE YEAR, AND WE HAVE TO BE READY FOR WHAT ENTAILS.” WADE BROWN, MONESSEN FOOTBALL COACH

Four juniors enter the season as threeyear starters, and the quartet includes running back Tyvaughn Kershaw, tight end/H-back/fullback Rodney Johnson, guard Torrence Taylor and running back/ wide receiver Tavian Taylor.

Senior linemen Jacob Savage and Daniel Dozier, as well as senior wide receiver Tim Kershaw, also provide plenty of experience.

Brown also has four sophomores who gained valuable time last season as freshmen in wide receivers Kayden Kolbeck and Jay’Veyon Jeffries, running back/slot receiver Michael Hines and H-back Jaekwon Craggette.

Hawkins, both Kershaws, Tavian Taylor, Kolbeck and Hines provide experienced depth in the secondary, while Tyvaughn Kershaw will also see time on the defensive line and at linebacker.

“He is such an athlete that we don’t know what we are going to do with him yet,” Brown said. “He provides us with positional flexibility, and it allows us to do different things.”

Joining Kershaw at linebacker will be Johnson, Dozier, Jeffries, and Craggette.

Expected to see time at defensive line will be Kershaw, Johnson, Torrence Taylor, Savage, and Dozier.

Brown said there will be freshmen who

will make contributions, but he wants them to earn their recognition.

For the first time since he has been head coach, Brown believes the offseason went better than expected, and he credits the players.

“The kids have been working really hard with weightlifting and conditioning,” he said. “It is something we haven’t had at this level, and they have taken it up a notch.

“We are excited to see how it translates to the football field and hope it leads to us having a successful season.”

The conference isn’t the only part of the

schedule Monessen has to worry about, as it plays non conference games against WPIAL runner-up South Side Beaver, West Greene, Beth-Center, and it hosts rival Charleroi in the opener.

“We lost to South Side in the playoffs last season, and they made it to the finals,” Brown said. “West Greene beat us as well, and Beth-Center, under Coach (Tony) Ruscitto, who I played for at Duquesne, will be tough.

“We open with Charleroi, and it is a rivalry game, and everyone knows how rivalry games are.”

Jim Downey for the observer-reporter

Rodney Johnson is one of four juniors for Monessen who will be in their third season in the starting lineup.

Mt. Lebanon Blue Devils

Championships always the goal at Mt. Lebanon

By Eleanor Bailey

The Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net

MT. LEBANON – Coaches may change, but goals remain constant at Mt. Lebanon.

“To be competitive and compete for championships,” said Greg Perry.

Perry is the third head football coach in three years at Mt. Lebanon. He was hired in February to replace Mike Collodi, who resigned after a 5-6 inaugural campaign. Prior to Collodi, Bob Palko led Lebo, guiding the squad to WPIAL title and PIAA championships in 2021 before retiring.

“Mt. Lebanon has a tradition of high standards in athletics as well as education,” Perry said. “It’s one of those jobs and places anyone would look forward to having. The goal is to maintain that pride and tradition.”

Perry brings a track record of winning to Mt. Lebanon. His coaching career has spanned more than 30 years and included stints at Seton LaSalle, Keystone Oaks and Canon-McMillan as well as Duquesne University. He has worked with NFL and collegiate quarterbacks as well as guiding teams to WPIAL titles and appearances in the PIAA finals.

“Everywhere you go, they will tell you that they want to get to the playoffs and vie for that (state) championship. We all want to get to the PIAA,” Perry said.

In 2024, however, Perry has his work cut out for him. He is implementing a new operating scheme and he is doing so in the highest classification, dominated recently by Central Catholic and North Allegheny. The Vikings have won eight WPIAL championships, three of them in the past six years. The Tigers have won six district titles, including last year with a 44-41 win against Central Catholic. The Vikings have been to the eight state finals, winning four times. NA owns two PIAA championships.

“NA and Central are the two-headed monster. They have been on top and will remain the favorite until somebody knocks them off,” Perry said. “We want to try and be that person.”

The Blue Devils will attempt to do so with a youthful look. They will start juniors in some critical positions, including quarterback.

Patrick Smith, along with sophomore Brady Wagner, have been tasked with running Perry’s fast-paced, no-huddle, pass-oriented attack.

“Pat has the ability to run the football and a strong arm to throw it. He’s a dual threat,” Perry said. “Brady has really high potential and once we get him up to speed in the system, we expect him to be a viable helper.

“In my years running this offense, it takes time to progress. If they work with me, then they’ll put up great numbers, which will lead to wins. The first year will be what it is but we expect it to become custom made.”

Smith is also tailored to start at linebacker, much as his brother, Jack, did when Lebo won its last state title and as his dad and uncles did when the Blue Devils ruled the WPIAL in the 1980s.

“We have no qualms with Pat going both ways. He’s a good enough athlete,” Perry said. “I love his athleticism and the respect his teammates give him because he is such a good athlete.”

Lebo’s roster is teeming with multi-sport athletes. For example, Kris Kambitsis and Grayson Beck played on the lacrosse club that produced a WPIAL title this spring. Both are juniors.

Kambitsis will be in the backfield with veteran Jimmy Green, who Perry expects to have a good year running the ball as well as catching it out of the backfield. Beck combines with Joe Malone at tight end. Both are 6-2 juniors that are expected to complement Smith.

“I love crossover kids and lacrosse is a great fit (for football) because of its physicality and running,” Perry said.

Noah Schaerli leads the receiving corp that includes junior Colin Kramer and senior Vince Musial. The 6-2, 175-pound senior was an all-conference performer and Lebo’s leading receiver last fall with 22 receptions for 476 yards and five TDs.

Schaerli, along with Musial and Kramer spearhead the defensive secondary with Green, and Billy Robertson, a senior.

Smith and Beck dominate the outside while Kambitsis and senior Dom Huff control the inside while the line will be dominated by two-way players, among them Malone and Jackson Kraemer at tackle and Lucas Bovino at nose guard.

A returning starter, Bovino anchors the offensive line at right guard. A junior, Kraemer has experience at right tackle. Jackson Steiner is the left tackle. A junior, he gained playing time last season. Jeff Frieden is a returning starter and is slotted at left guard. Senior Ben Taback is the center.

The Blue Devils will utilize the talents of junior Mickey Murphy and Steiner on both sides of the line.

“We have a little inexperience as two have played a lot and two played some,” Perry said. “Plus, they are working under a new system. It’s no-huddle and fast-paced. We’ll go as far as our offensive line goes. We need that group to gel.

Some 100 players came out for the team, of them 35 were freshmen and 27 were sophomores. The Blue Devils list 17 seniors and 21 juniors on the varsity roster.

“We need to grow up fast,” Perry said. He noted Lebo’s schedule is not favorable, starting with arch-rival Upper St. Clair on Aug. 23 followed by defending WPIAL 5A champion Peters Township on Sept. 6 before facing Central Catholic in the conference opener Sept. 13.

“Confidence is the biggest hurdle,” Perry continued. “They need to know they can compete with those teams. We need to develop enough to be ready for those early hurdles until we get comfortable with what we are trying to be and that is a WPIAL playoff team.”

ElEanor BailEy/the almanac

Mt. Lebanon linemen work on their blocking skills during preseason football drills.

PT might be better than the rest, again Peters Township Indians

By Eleanor Bailey

The Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net

McMURRAY – The 2023 campaign for the Peters Township football team was not an anomaly. The 15-1 season, which included a conference championship, WPIAL title and a PIAA Class 5A runner-up trophy, is the norm.

“It was a special year, but we work toward that,” said PT coach TJ Plack. “Our motto is the best is the standard and better never rests.”

So, the Indians expect success in 2024.

While they graduated 16 seniors, many of them starters, the Indians return a handful of seasoned two-way veterans.

Nolan DiLucia engineered the high-powered offense that put up 36.5 points a game while linebackers Mickey Vaccarello and Reston Lehman anchored the WPIAL’s best defense along with versatile veterans such as Nick McCullough, Nick Courie and Franco Muscatello.

DiLucia passed for 3,111 yards and 33 touchdowns last season. He rushed for 489 yards and eight more scores. The 6-2, 195-pound junior earned all-conference and all-state laurels. He was named the player of the year in WPIAL Class 5A.

According to Plack, DiLucia has had 23 starts, including those on defense his freshman year. DiLucia, who has only two career losses, will play more defense this fall.

“Nolan’s our alpha male leader. He’s held the attention of the upperclassmen, particularly the seniors last year,” Plack said. “He’s one of our impressive voices.

“He’s intelligent and he’ll have more on his plate this year but he flourishes under pressure. He trusts his linemen.

“I’d be naive to say that stats don’t matter, because we will need them,” he continued. “But they will take care of themselves because Nolan has the ability to get the ball to the playmakers and put points on the scoreboard. That’s what he cares about – winning.”

Peters Township won last year with defense, too. The unit surrendered only 10 points per game and recorded four shutouts.

Vaccarello and Lehman, who will be utilized at H-back and tight end on offense, are rangy outside linebackers with Courie sandwiched in the middle. All are three-year starters.

A 6-3, 210-pound all-state performer, Vaccarello committed to Stanford this spring. He recorded 111 total tackles, 29 tackles for loss and 13 sacks last fall.

A junior, Lehman was also an all-state performer at linebacker. The Division I prospect is 6-4, 230 and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.69.

“It’s nice to have two great linebackers that are so long and intelligent. They enjoy playing against great competition. They thrive on that,” Plack said.

“We want them to be a menace. Get in the quarterback’s head.”

Muscatello anchors a defensive line deep with talent, Lucas Shanafelt is in the mix of linebackers, McCullough returns to cornerback and Darius McMillon is a veteran safety. PJ Luke fills the other cornerback slot while Lucas Rost, DiLucia, Cole Neupaver, Eli Prado and Joey Wertman afford the Indians plenty of depth in the secondary.

“We have nice numbers on the line and we have guys in the secondary. They will all play. We are looking for guys who mesh together and stay healthy … although in the past we have found most of our gems when someone got hurt,” Plack said.

Many of the players on defense will see time on offense.

Most, who backs up DiLucia and who threw a TD pass in the PIAA final, will start at wide receiver. McCullough, Shanafelt, McMillon, Prado and Luke spearhead the receiving group.

McMillon will likely catch passes out of the backfield as he will line up with Corie and Neupauver at running back.

“These guys will touch the ball. We like their speed,” Plack said.

He embraces their versatility as well. McMillon is a seasoned wrestler while Neupauver, a transfer from North Catholic, played hockey and baseball for the Trojans.

On the offensive line, PT returns three starters. Muscatello will play guard or tackle. Zack Stromock, a standout heavyweight wrestler, was an all-conference tackle last fall. Alex Klein returns at center.

In the mix for O-line positions are Max Cortes, Tanner, Shaw, Caden Thompson and Gabe Kita.

“O-line is a bit of a concern and we need to see who steps up at some of the skill positions,” Plack said. “We are going to have some young guys who maybe make mistakes early, but we have to come out of the gates swinging. The key is to get better and gel.

“That’s always the goal. To improve every week, We want to go 1-0 each week and not look any further.”

Peters Township competes in the Allegheny Six Conference in Class 5A with Baldwin, Bethel Park, Moon, South Fayette and Upper St. Clair.

“Familiar foes like Bethel Park and USC, which are loaded with returning players at key positions on both sides of the ball, are looking for their chance to knock us off,” Plack said.

“South Fayette has a new coach. Baldwin’s program has stabilized and Moon brings back a lot of guys.

“We appreciate and respect those teams and although we are not natural rivals for them, we want them to know when they play us.

Mickey Vaccarello, a Stanford commit and an all-state linebacker, will be tasked with leading the Peters Township defense. He had more than 100 tackles last year as the Indians won conference and WPIAL titles and a PIAA runner-up trophy.

“We walk into every game thinking we have a target on our back. It’s how we operate. We want to be on the other team’s radar. We walk into every game thinking that someone is coming for us.”

Photos by ElEanor bailEy/the almanac

TJ Plack addresses his football players after a Peters Township workout.

New coach pumping life into Ringgold Ringgold Rams

By Chris Dugan Sports editor dugan@observer-reporter.com

MONONGAHELA – Robert Heller begins his first season as a high school football head coach this fall, at his alma mater, Ringgold.

However, in the first seven months on the job, Heller might have felt more like a college assistant coach because he spent much of his time recruiting. Not athletes from other schools – that would be against PIAA rules – but rather kids from all places in the Ringgold School District. Anywhere to find a player who can help reverse the fortunes of Ringgold football.

It was Heller’s theory that many of Ringgold’s best athletes didn’t consider playing football or had left the program.

The records prove as much as Ringgold has lost 25 consecutive games, so Heller has his work cut out for him. That’s why he hit the recruiting trail hard.

“I went everywhere. I went to their houses, I pulled kids out of class to talk to them, I went to basketball games, wrestling matches, baseball games, track and field meets,” he said. “Ringgold hasn’t won a game in two years. Yeah, we were bad. But my biggest thing was trust me. At least, give me a shot. When the kids see how I’m wired, they will see that it’s different this year.”

Heller’s in-school recruiting and enthusiastic approach is paying off. The Rams reported more than 40 players for preseason camp following a successful summer 7-on-7 season.

“The question I get asked the most,” Heller says, “is how is it going? My answer is: There’s a pulse at Ringgold.”

The heartbeat is strong these days, Heller says, because the Rams have learned to compete and win. They participated in six 7-on-7 tournaments this summer and won four of those.

“We were so active in 7-on-7s – and I know it’s not real football – but what the kids learned is to not quit,” Heller said. “If they got down early, they would fight to come back. They learned to have grit. ... I would put our offseason up with anyone in the WPIAL.”

Among those who have helped re-energize Ringgold are some first-year players and others who have returned after leaving the program. Others were playing the wrong positions, according to Heller.

“ THE QUESTION I GET ASKED THE MOST IS HOW IS IT GOING? MY ANSWER IS: THERE’S A PULSE AT RINGGOLD.” ROBERT HELLER, RINGGOLD FOOTBALL COACH

Junior quarterback Amoni Ward (5-8, 170) was a defensive end last year. Keyshawn Goggins is a 6-2, 215-pound senior running back who did not play last year.

Sophomore wide receiver Demetri Lowe is a 6-2 wide receiver and cornerback who stood out on offense during the 7-on-7 games. “Sometimes it was unfair the way he would go up and get every ball. He was that good,” Heller said.

Senior Szyair Dungee, who will be used at multiple positions on offense, reminds Hell-

er of a former Mon Valley area standout.

“He reminds me of Devin Whitlock when he was at Belle Vernon,” he said. “The little kid is dynamite.”

Ringgold has some experience returning on the lines on both offense and defense, such as junior Austin Pehowic and sophomore Grant Nicklow. The Rams are high on the potential of some young players, like sophomore Owen Conroy and freshmen Silas Miller, Nick Stasko and Cole Konek.

“We have a lot of young kids who weren’t playing. We also have a lot of older kids

who didn’t play last year who will play,” Heller said. “We’ll probably start three ninth graders, but they’re ready.” Ringgold opens the season Friday against South Allegheny, which is coming off a 1-9 season.

“I think the WPIAL did us a favor,” Heller said. “If you look at our schedule, four of the first five games are against Class 3A or 2A teams. On paper, our goal is to go into the Trinity game, our first conference game, 5-0.

“We started from the bottom. … We taught them how to have pride in themselves, which I think was missing at Ringgold. Our goal is to give the kids some hope.”

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter

First-year Ringgold head coach Robert Heller gives instructions in the huddle during practice at Joe Montana Stadium.

South Fayette Lions

South Fayette wants ‘controlled chaos’

By Eleanor Bailey

The Almanac Sports Editor ebailey@thealmanac.net

The Fast and Furious franchise expands to encompass South Fayette this football season.

Under new head coach Marty Spieler, the Lions anticipate striking quickly on offense and pouncing relentlessly on defense.

Spieler has designated Alex Dennison as the offensive coordinator. Dennison played under Spieler when he coached at the University of Buffalo. The pair were reunited at Florida A&M. Bruce Fronk, with whom Spieler coached at Mt. Lebanon when the Blue Devils went 15-0, winning a WPIAL and PIAA title in 2021, is the defensive coordinator.

“We want to provide six seconds of fury,” Spieler said. “We want to go as fast and furious as we can go. It will be controlled chaos.”

Defensively, the Lions want to put opposing offenses in “bad positions” while at the same time knowing their players will maintain their positions and responsibility.

Those players are athletic and they have gained valuable experience at other endeavors. Some of them are accustomed to winning and they aim to return the Lions back to the playoffs and their successful ways.

While South Fayette won four WPIAL titles, two state championships and maintained two of the longest winning streaks in the district during Joe Rossi’s 17 seasons at the helm, the Lions finished 4-6 overall and 1-4 in the Class 5A Allegheny Six last fall. They have not made the playoffs since 2020.

“We have to get back to the playoffs. The expectations at South Fayette are to be successful,” Spieler said. “With our top-end skill and confidence in our coaches, we should be able to compete and put ourselves back in the conversation. But we have to take care of business on day one (against Chartiers Valley). We have to keep grinding day in and day out. Get better every day.”

Defensively, Tyler Ring anchors the line. The 210-pound junior was a successful thrower on the track team. He’s also an all-conference defensive end.

“He’s very flexible. Can play inside and outside,” Spieler said. “He will be a guy that teams have to game plan for.”

Spieler expects Brady Onda to provide a solid pass rush along with Louie Schinosi. A 6-2, 200-pound sophomore, Onda is a veteran basketball player. Schinosi is a 6-2, 215-pound junior.

At inside linebacker are juniors Talan

Tyler Collins, left, and Luke Gillen should provide scoring punch once South Fayette enters the Red Zone. Collins is a Division I prospect as a long snapper and Gillen is an accurate placekicker, honing his skills as a member of the soccer team that captured a WPIAL title thanks to his scoring touch.

Mizenko, Travis Watkins and Cooper Hillenbrand. Mizenko posted a 30-14 record on the wrestling mats last winter. Watkins and Hillenbrand were standouts on SF’s successful lacrosse team. The Lions were WPIAL runners-up and reached the semifinals in the PIAA Class 2A tournament.

“Those guys have plenty of experience at being successful at other WPIAL sports,” Spieler said. “That’s the biggest thing about other sports. We want kids to be competitive and who want to win for South Fayette. So we want kids to put themselves in those high-pressure situations and see if the cream rises to the top.”

Tyson Wright rose to the top in track. He set the school record in the high jump. He will compete with Andre Rivera and Silas Aitken for the outside linebacker slots. “Those guys provide the ability to pressure the quarterback as well as drop into coverage,” Spieler said.

In the secondary, South Fayette boasts more athletic and aggressive players. Bo Stover and Ray Schuler are baseball players while Bryce Watkins is another lacrosse player. Cornerbacks Trey Potteiger and Aiden Martincic are returning starters. Noah Mathias and Ben Cavenaugh are veteran safeties along with Stover.

“We have a lot of depth there. So we will be able to keep people fresh,” Spieler said. “At our defensive back positions we will be able to move kids in and be successful because we have athletic kids.”

At quarterback, the Lions have versatile athletes in Drew Welhorsky and his backup Braeden Plasko. A sophomore, Welhorsky was the leading scorer on the lacrosse team. Plasko is a basketball player.

“Braeden has the ability to be a really good field general but Drew is our starter. He is so competitive and athletic. He wants to be in

high, intense situations and that’s huge for the position. As a sophomore, he has a huge upside. He’s a dual-threat. Our biggest emphasis other than winning is to protect the football. Drew’s job will be to do that and get the ball to the playmakers.”

Mizenko and Aitken look to be playmakers in the backfield. “Talan is a hard-nosed, downhill runner with a wrestler’s mentality and Sylas gives us great flexibility. Plus, he is a very physical kid,” Spieler said.

Senior Marcus Cole and Alex Deanes, a flex player, afford the Lions depth at running back.

As is their tradition, the Lions are deep at the receiving position. Martincic leads the unit along with Cavenaugh and Mathias.

“Those guys are special. They start both ways and have the ability to bring others along with them,” Spieler said.

The offensive line could be the question mark because center Connor Hiser and tackle Mason Green are the only returning starters, though Ring moves from tight end to guard. Onda and Ethan Risnear are expected to contribute to the line.

“We have good depth at the skill positions and Drew (Welhorsky) gives us a lot of different looks for defenses, but we lack playing experience on the offensive line. We need to use our offensive line strengths to the best of our ability,” Spieler said.

Marty Spieler is the new head coach at South Fayette, replacing Joe Rossi, who led the Lions to four WPIAL titles and two PIAA football championships.

Photos by ElEanor bailEy/the AlmAnAc

Trinity seeks to continue rapid growth

By Joe Tuscano For the Observer-Reporter newsrooom@observer-reporter.com

If Jonah Williamson makes the same type of talent leap this year, then there will be a lot of smiling faces along the sidelines and in the stands at Trinity High School football games

A year ago, Williamson became one of only a handful of WPIAL players to pass for more than 1,000 yards and rush for more than 1,000 yards in a season and Trinity responded with a playoff-bound season in the rugged Class 4A Big Seven Conference, where Williamson was named Offensive Player of the Year.

Williamson completed 127 passes out of 212 attempts for 1,860 yards, an average of 14.7 yards a completion. His running ability produced 1,012 yards on 164 tries for an average of 6.2 yards per carry.

“I’m a quarterback at heart so it was

“ WE’RE GOING TO BE A LITTLE

IT’S JUST ABOUT MAKING PLAYS AND GIVING IT OUR ALL EVERY DAY TO GET BETTER.”

JONAH WILLIAMSON,

definitely more fun to throw the ball,” said Williamson, a junior. His biggest win came midway through the season when the Hillers stunned Thomas Jefferson, a perennial conference powerhouse, 23-6. Williamson ran for 108 yards and two touchdowns in the Hillers’ biggest win of the season. Trinity finished 4-2 and in a three-way tie for second place in the conference. The Hillers were 7-5 overall and routed North Catholic 49-0 in the first round of the playoffs before being knocked out of the postseason by WPIAL runner-up McKeesport.

Photos by Mark Marietta/For the observer-rePorter

Nico Mauro will be counted

Trinity’s running game.

Semaju Fuse, right,

“It’s a credit to his athleticism that he would have such a productive year,” said Trinity head coach Dan Knause. “We started him as a freshman because we knew he had special tools. We expected big things. I can’t say we thought it would be this rapid or that he would be player of the year in our conference but we knew the ability was there.”

Williamson already has a few college offers but he is just concentrating on this season.

“We’re going to be a little young,” Williamson said. “It’s just about making plays and giving it our all every day to get better.”

Williamson will probably be depended on even more this season with the graduation of running back/wide receiver Andrew Durig, wide receivers Luke Lacock and Dante DeRubbo and linemen Jase Banco and Braeden Helmkamp. Durig, Lacock and DeRubbo combined for 89 pass receptions and scored 24 touchdowns last season.

Junior running back Nico Mauro also will be counted on more now that Durig is not available. Mauro rushed for 247 yards and scored three touchdowns a year ago. Mekhi Bouman and Daniel Glass add much-needed depth.

“We’ll always have flexibility in the foundation of our offense,” said Knause. “That’s

what is fun at camp. We’re going to find out what we do well.”

Anthony Giorgi, who had eight receptions for 120 yards last year, is back at wide receiver.

The line gets Semaj Fuse back at one tackle and Jackson Starr at the other one. Hunter Martin returns after an injury-plagued season. Julius Wise and John Dube get first shot at the guard spots and Jerrod Catlin is at center. Also in the mix are Braden Rager, David Gill and Owen Gardner.

Fuse anchors the defensive line and the remaining spots will be filled by committee. Knause is optimistic about the play of Jack Dufalla. Mauro and Caden Vogel will start at inside linebacker and Giorgi and Brock Spiker will hold down the outside spots.

The secondary was decimated by graduation and all four spots were up for grabs in camp.

Knause believes Thomas Jefferson along with Belle Vernon, last year’s WPIAL and PIAA Class 3A champion, are the teams to beat in the conference. An interesting game comes in Week 2, when Trinity plays McGuffey in a non-conference affair at Hiller Field.

“It’s a very demanding schedule,” Knause said. “Our goal is to get better one day at a time.”

Upper St. Clair Panthers

Panthers pine for playoff position

By Eleanor Bailey

The Almanac Sports editor ebailey@thealmanac.net

Sitting out the WPIAL playoffs after an 8-2 regular season enflamed Upper St. Clair last fall. It also motivates the Panthers in 2024.

“We got to feel what it was like to stay at home and It certainly was a frustration. Not having that playoff experience is something we are unaccustomed to around here,” said USC head coach Mike Junko. “So there is a real hunger among our young men to get back to the playoffs and not take for granted what it takes to get there.

Junko noted the process for qualifying for the playoffs was clear and the Panthers did not qualify because, though they tied Bethel Park and Moon with 3-2 conference records, they lost out on a berth because of the Gardner Points System as well as results against the competition.

“We don’t want to put ourselves in that position again so we are working hard to get back to the playoffs,” Junko said. “This group is very hungry and driven.”

The Panthers are also experienced. They return nine starters on offense and 10 on defense.

“We are excited about 2024 because last year we had a lot of inexperienced players that really matured and were playing their best football at the end of the year. We hope to continue to build off that growth and maturation. We have kids who grew together, fought battles together and trust one another. It’s good to go into a season with guys who have battled and have gotten experience playing under the lights.”

The Hellmann brothers, Ethan and Van, are among the veterans expected to make critical contributions. A junior, Ethan returns at quarterback while Van, a senior, is a veteran linebacker that provides versatility on offense as an H-back. Van accumulated 57 tackles and picked up three sacks while Ethan passed for more than 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns.

“Van is one of our biggest threats when he is healthy. He can prevent receivers from catching the ball and he is an excellent run blocker. A throwback. Old school,” Junko said.

“Ethan is a fiery kid. We excels in an environment where he is allowed to compete with intensity. He thrives because of his competitiveness. As a quarterback, he has very good pocket presence and is one of

Upper St. Clair football coach Mike Junko, left, stresses a point to quarterback Ethan Hellmann. A junior, Hellmann passed for more than 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns during USC’s 8-2 campaign in 2023.

the most accurate that I have coached. He knows how to get out of trouble and when to hang in there. He has good field vision.”

The Panthers will have ample time to throw because they boast a very experienced offensive line.

Bobby Fleckenstein is a two-year starter at right tackle. Brock Gillespie is a veteran at right guard. Junior Mason Geyer anchors the line at center.

A left guard, Nate Stohl is “unrivaled” on both sides of the line. He and Mike Albert are Princeton bound. A junior, Reese Pirain had the edge at left tackle.

Sophomore Ryan Robbins, senior Austin Middleton and junior Chase Kaczmarek provide depth on the line.

“It all starts with the O-line. It’s important to our program. Our ID,” Junko said.

Junior Dante Coury and sophomore John Banbury provide a 1-2 punch in the backfield.

A slasher, Coury, and a pounder, Banbury,

complement each other with their styles. Plus, they can catch the ball, says Junko.

“Those guys will continue in the long tradition of good running backs at USC,” Junko said. “They fit the mold.”

Veterans Charlie Bywalski and Julian Dahlem return as USC’s leading receivers along with Bryce Jones and Nico D’Orazio.

Dahlem hauled in a team-high 30 passes for six touchdowns and accounted for 750 all-purpose yards in 2023. He also ranked second on the team in rushing and scoring. He is also a starter in the secondary.

While Mike Albert will be utilized as a tight end, he has moved from linebacker to the defensive line and will play alongside Stohl and Pirain.

Veteran starters Banbury and Hellman will be joined by Coury at linebacker. Coury moves from strong safety. Carter Stein’s talents will also be used at linebacker.

“We have an experienced, very physical

Nate Stohl is a three-year starter that should anchor the offensive as well as defensive lines for Upper St. Clair. An all-conference defensive tackle, he recorded 65 tackles and seven sacks during last year’s 8-2 campaign. He is a Princeton recruit.

group,” Junko said. “They love to hit and they love to take on isolation situations. It can be a strength of our defense.”

USC’s weakness on defense last year was its secondary but the group has gained experience as D’Orazio returns at safety, and Dahlem, as well as Jones, are back on the corners. Jake Casares is a strong safety along with Drew Sanderson and Bywalski.

“We gave up too many big plays in the passing game,” Junko said. “This is an area that we expect to see our most improvement.”

For all of its experience, USC will still be chasing Peters Township as well as rival Bethel Park for the conference crown. The Indians are the defending WPIAL champions as well as PIAA runners-up.

“When you look at our conference, the WPIAL champion or runner-up has come out of our conference for six years. So it’s the strongest in 5A,” Junko said. “Everybody’s goals are to win a conference championship and the WPIAL and to play for a state title. We need to be clear of our direction and the vision on where we want to go. We are a hungry group that did not get to play playoff football.

The desire is to not let that happen again.”

Photos by ElEanor bailEy/the AlmAnAc

New faces but expectations remain high for Prexies Washington Prexies

By Jonathan Guth Staff writer jguth@observer-reporter.com

Mike Bosnic learned early on in his tenure as head football coach at Washington that expectations will always be high, regardless of what happened the previous year.

Bosnic is entering his 16th year at the helm with an overall record of 138-34. He guided the Prexies to a WPIAL championship in 2017 and an overall record of 13-1. Bosnic began his head coaching career at Carmichaels, and had a record of 35-25 from 2003-08.

The Albert Gallatin graduate, who played collegiately for the University of Pittsburgh, guided the Prexies to a 11-2 record last season that ended in a 28-26 setback to eventual champion Beaver Falls in the semifinals of the WPIAL Class 2A playoffs.

Washington tied McGuffey for first place in the Century Conference with a 5-1 record. The Prexies defeated the Highlanders both times, including an 18-7 triumph in the quarterfinals of the WPIAL playoffs.

“The game against Beaver Falls was one of those games where we made some mistakes and gave up the ball too many times,” Bosnic said. “It was an uncharacteristic night for us, and it was one of those losses you can’t forget because we were so close to the WPIAL title game. In both games we lost last year, it was on wet and dreary nights, and we didn’t take care of the ball.”

Last season was an improvement from the 2022 team that “only” finished 7-5 and advanced to the WPIAL quarterfinals in Class 2A, but Bosnic and his staff will have to replace some solid players, including the talented trio of Ruben Gordon, Zxavian Wills and De’Ondre Daugherty. All three will play football in college with Gordon at Ohio, Willis at Walsh University and Daugherty staying close to home at California. Gordon and Willis were key skill players for the Prexies, while Daugherty was a starting lineman. Elijah Swan was another senior that will have a position open for a newcomer.

“It was a nice group of seniors that

“ I’M EXCITED ABOUT THE FUTURE. WE ARE COMING IN WITH A LOT OF YOUNG GUYS, ESPECIALLY AT THE SKILL POSITIONS. I AM NOT SURE HOW THE GUYS WILL DEVELOP, BUT IF THEY PROGRESS THE WAY THEY ARE, WE COULD HAVE SOMETHING REALLY SPECIAL.”

MIKE BOSNIC, WASH HIGH FOOTBALL COACH

we had last year, and they are going to be tough to replace,” Bosnic said. “We have been a little up and down lately. Some schools would have been excited about the seasons we’ve had, but it was disappointing for us.”

Washington will welcome back its starting quarterback in junior Tristan Reed, who threw for 1,381 yards and 15 touchdowns. Caleb Patton came in for an injured Reed in the Prexies’ first-round playoff victory over Ellwood City.

“Caleb came in and did some good things for us last year, especially in the Ellwood City game,” Bosnic said. “Those guys are great athletes, and we will find a way to use both of them.”

Junior guard and defensive tackle Joe Wilson returns and will anchor the line with Kar’Zell Daugherty (C/ DT) and Jayden Nemeth (OT/DE). Alex Green returns at offensive guard.

Daugherty, Reed and Wilson will serve as captains. Wilson has been named to the all-conference team his first two seasons.

“Those guys will set the tone for us,” Bosnic said. “We have Jahvon Woods back at fullback and linebacker, and Cayden Cook started at linebacker. Cayden also has experience on offense.”

Trenton Grooms (RB/LB), Tyler Crawford (WR/DB/K) and Isaiah Watson (WR/DB) didn’t start last season, but Bosnic hopes they can fill the void left by last year’s top skill players.

“I’m excited about the future,” Bosnic said. “We are coming in with a lot of young guys, especially at the skill positions. I am not sure how the guys will develop, but if they progress the way they are, we could have something really special.”

Bosnic wasn’t sure if any of his returning wide receivers caught a pass last season, but for those who are keeping track, Woods had four receptions for 46 yards.

The Prexies remain in the Century Conference with Charleroi, Keystone Oaks, Sto-Rox and

Washington quarterback Tristan Reed will return for his junior season after passing for 15 touchdowns last year.

Waynesburg, but Brentwood and McGuffey have moved to different classifications. Carlynton and Seton LaSalle are the new teams in the conference.

Washington still plays McGuffey, as the Prexies travel to Claysville to open the season.

“It is going to be a challenge, week in and week out,” Bosnic said. “We are at McGuffey and at Steel Valley the first two weeks of the season. We also picked up South Park and Union, who have had some great seasons recently.”

Mark Marietta/ For the observer-reporter

By John Sacco

Bar has been raised at Waynesburg Waynesburg Raiders

For the Observer-Reporter

The expectations have changed.

Waynesburg Central High School football coach Aaron Giorgi has made sure everyone who plays a part in the program knows it.

“Making the playoffs is the bar now,” said Giorgi who led the Raiders back to the WPIAL Class AA playoffs in 2023 after going winless in 10 games just the season before.

Waynesburg won its first four games last season and finished 3-3 in the Class 2A Century Conference to finish fourth and earn a postseason berth. The Raiders went 7-4 last season and lost to Imani Christian in the opening round of the payoffs.

“Our goal is to continue building for the playoffs,” Giorgi said. “Last year was a good turning point for the program moving forward.”

The Raiders’ four wins to open the season was the first time the program achieved that since 2000.

While the Century Conference has a different look this season, Waynesburg figures to contend for one of the four postseason berths.

The Raiders return talented senior quarterback and strong safety Jacob Stephenson (6-2, 200). In all, Waynesburg returns 15 starters.

Other returning starters are senior Vince Maley (6-4, 260), a two-way lineman; sophomore Jack Ricciuti (6-4, 205), a wide receiver-outside linebacker; junior Jeffrey Blair (510, 180), a wide receiver-middle linebacker; sophomore Caden Fowler (6-3, 225), offensive lineman-defensive end; junior Zachery Jiblits (5-6, 150), receiver-safety; sophomore Ross Tennant (5-9, 175) running back cornerback; sophomore Teagen Crouse (5-8, 155) receiver-quarterback-cornerback; senior Sawyer Haynes (5-9, 150), outside linebacker; senior Ethan Kiger (5-8, 160) wide receiver-linebacker; junior Dane Woods (6-3, 210) receiver-linebacker; sophomores Grant Pack (5-10, 150) guard-linebacker and Andy Mahle (6-0, 210) guard-defensive tackle; senior Dalton Taylor (6-3, 165) placekickerpunter and junior Mason Mankey (5-10, 165) running back-defensive back.

Top newcomers, according to Giorgi include junior Jackson Fisher (5-11, 220), a two-way lineman; and sophomores Taylor Sproat, 6-2, 185-pound two-way lineman and wide receiver-outside linebacker Ace Litwinovich (6-1, 185).

That group should off-set the losses of running back-free safety Breydon Woods, receiver-linebacker Coly Pauley and two-way lineman Layden Haynes.

Woods led the Raiders to their first playoff berth since 2014 rushing for1,316 yards. He caught 15 passes and scored 14 touchdowns. Woods had a pair of 200-yard rushing games, including 271 against Charleroi. He was the Offensive Player of the Year in the Century Conference

“We lost some guys but have a lot of returners,” Giorgi said. “Jake threw for more than 1,000 yards last season. Crouse and

Jiblits will be much more involved in the passing game. Maley and Fowler are bookend tackles.

“Jeff Blair moves in at middle linebacker and he’s a hard hitter.”

Waynesburg will compete in a new-look Century Conference. The Raiders will compete against Carlynton, Charleroi, Keystone Oaks, Seton LaSalle, Sto-Rox and Washington. Gone are McGuffey and Brentwood. The Cougars and Rebels are new to the conference.

Seton LaSalle and Washington are considered top contenders with Keystone Oaks and

Waynesburg as solid postseason threats. Waynesburg opens its season against Class A West Greene. The balance of its schedule includes away games with Class A California, Washington, highly regarded Steel Valley and Charleroi with home games against Jefferson-Morgan, Seton LaSalle, Carlynton, Keystone Oaks and Sto-Rox.

“Our team strength is our diverse athletic ability,” Giorgi. “We have a lot of skill with guys who can do multiple things. We have a lot of guys who we’d like to get the ball in their hands. Those guys can do special things.”

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter

Jacob Stephenson gives the Raiders a dual threat at quarterback.

Graduation leaves West Greene with big shoes to fill West Greene Pioneers

By Joe Tuscano

For the Observer-Reporter newsrooom@observer-reporter.com

The biggest battle West Greene High School might have this year is handling graduation.

The team that went 6-1 in the Class A Tri-County South Conference and 8-3 overall was senior laden and it’s the job of head coach Beau Jackson and his staff to plug the holes and get the next group ready for game action.

“Honestly, there are a lot of question marks going into camp,” Jackson said. “We have to see how guys are going to fill in. Unfortunately, we lost a lot of players with a big senior class. Fortunately, we have a lot of good players coming back.”

Graduation decimated the Pioneers’ backfield. The biggest loss was arguably Colin Brady, who despite an injury-plagued season rushed for 1,089 yards. Brady gave way to Billy Whitlatch, who filled in nicely. Whitlatch rushed for 1,440 yards in his senior season. Brady and Whitlatch combined for 2,529 yards and 31 touchdowns in the run-heavy offense. Another player lost to graduation this year was fullback John Lampe, who gained 443 yards and scored 13 touchdowns. Whitlatch finished sixth out of all Class A rushers while Brady was 13th.

“That’s one of the question marks we have,” Jackson said. “We lost our entire backfield from tailback to fullback. And we lost our linebacking corps also. But the good thing is we have four starting linemen coming back.”

And a fifth lineman who got a lot of playing time.

They include junior Colin Whyte, senior Brennen Crawford, sophomore Mason Ansell, junior Hunter Gorby and senior Levi Smith.

Parker Burns returns at tight end for his senior season so Lane Allison should feel well protected from his starting quarterback position. Allison completed 55 of 115 passes for 984 yards last year. He had 16 touchdowns and six interceptions. Those statistics put him 12th in Class A.

“We’re pretty excited to see what he does this season,” Jackson said. “He didn’t throw a heck of a lot but when we did, he went deep. He had good yards per attempt.”

“I feel we just have to practice harder,”

“ HONESTLY, THERE ARE A LOT OF QUESTION MARKS GOING INTO CAMP. WE HAVE TO SEE HOW GUYS ARE GOING TO FILL IN. UNFORTUNATELY, WE LOST A LOT OF PLAYERS WITH A BIG SENIOR CLASS. FORTUNATELY, WE HAVE A LOT OF GOOD PLAYERS COMING BACK.”

BEAU JACKSON, WEST GREENE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COACH

Allison said. “We need to get as prepared as we can. I feel a little bit more pressure. Now that Colin is gone and Billy is gone, we need people to step up.”

Jackson has a plan to shore up the running game.

“What we’re thinking about is we had Patrick Durbin play some wide receiver. We’re going to try to move him back to tailback,” said Jackson. “We might split reps with Jackson Grimes and with Austin

Pettit. They’re going to be athletes. We’re going to move them around from running back to receiver.”

At wide receiver, Jackson gets a boost from the return of Jacob Orndoff, who didn’t play last year, Grimes and Matt Wassil.

Crawford, Smith, Gorby and Ansell will provide the muscle up front on defense.

“We’re going to experiment a little bit with Colin Whyte at linebacker,” Jackson

said. “We’ll have Brice Smith, who didn’t play last year, paired with Whyte.”

Allison and Orndoff will handle the safety positions while Burns and Grimes will take care of the cornerback spots.”

Durbin returns to manage the placekicking responsibility but the punting and kickoff chores will be up for grabs in camp.

Maybe the best thing that happened for the Pioneers came with realignment. Avella was put into the Tri-County South and perennial power Monessen was moved out.

“Avella is going through some pretty good athletes right now,” Jackson said.

“You can expect them to be on the fringe of a playoff team. Jefferson-Morgan is getting a lot of kids back and I think that they will be a top-tier team. And California is always strong.”

AdAm Huckestein/For tHe observer-reporter

With an experienced quarterback and offensive line, head coach Beau Jackson could have West Greene headed to the top of the Class A Tri-County South Conference.

Penn West California Vulcans

Vulcans’ goal is get back to D-II playoffs

By Joe Tuscano

For the Observer-Reporter newsrooom@observer-reporter.com

The last time California’s football team qualified for the NCAA Division II playoffs was 2017. But don’t think for one moment that the Vulcans have been playing less than inspiring football since that time.

The Vulcans have compiled a 36-17 record since the last playoff appearance and have come within a whisker of twice making the tournament.

“We’ve got to get in. We’ve got to work,” said Cal head coach Gary Dunn. “We’ve got to be ready to compete every year. We have one of the toughest schedules and this year is no different. We open up with a playoff team in Charleston (W.Va.). Then we go out and play a West Chester team that is very tough to play out there. Then we get into the PSAC West, which is a grind every year. I don’t feel the pressure (from a non-playoff season). We were a play away last year and it just didn’t fall our way. We probably had one of the toughest schedules in Division II football last season. We played Slippery Rock. East Stroudsburg, Kutztown and Shepherd. We played four playoff teams and nearly beat three of them.

“I control only what I can control. That’s going out there and being ready to compete. I’m not really concerned about anything else.”

With the veteran group returning, this might just be the team to end that drought.

“We’ve graduated some guys but we feel that we have a good group coming back,” said Dunn. “They’re all important.”

Cal has most of its offense returning that averaged 35 points per game, including quarterback Davis Black. He is coming off a season in which he threw for 2,525 yards and 19 touchdowns. He’ll need to cut down on his 12 interceptions and 19 sacks.

Add to the arsenal last year’s top three running backs in Erick McKan III, Bobby Boyd Jr., and Black. McKan and Boyd combined for 1,180 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns.

The top four wide receivers – Eric Willis, Omari Hopkins, Demonte Martin and D’Avay Johnson – return. The four combined for 125 receptions for 2,084 yards and 18 touchdowns.

“We feel really good about our wide receivers,” said Dunn. “(Johnson) came on and was our best receiver by the end of the year.”

Three players return along the offensive

line: right tackle Sean Knight, right guard Nashawn Jackson and center Jaheim Bassham.

Dunn feels the middle of the defense will be the strong point. Julien Laventure returns at tackle, next to Josh Hough, a transfer from Syracuse who missed a big chunk of last season with an injury. Those two are backed by Naquan Crowder, an Aliquippa product.

Tobey, second on the team with 62

Davis Black, the latest in a long line of talented California quarterbacks, passed for 2,525 yards and 19 touchdowns a year ago.

Linebacker John Hutchinson, the Vulcans’ leading tackler last season, returns and gives California a player to build its defense around.

Year in Charney. I feel we’re real strong up the middle.”

Anthony Beitko returns to handle the placekicking.

Dunn said defending West Division champion Slippery Rock will be tough to beat.

“Anybody can win it,” Dunn said. “Slippery Rock’s been on top the past couple years. You have to give them the nod until someone knocks them off. Indiana is always tough. You’ve seen other team’s coaching staffs. This is about when you see their approach and their culture begin to take over.

tackles, graduated. Leading tackler John Hutchinson is back and will help along with Brandon Choi and Grant Hopple.

Dom Solomon returns for a sixth season at safety, next to Keith Charney. The cornerback positions are up for grabs in camp.

“Dom’s been around as long as I have,” Dunn joked. “He had a medical redshirt his freshman year and the COVID year right after. We have the defensive Rookie of the

Seton Hill did a heck of a job last year and they’re going to be good this year. Edinboro’s coach has been there a few years now so you’ve got to believe they’re going to be tough. In the PSAC West, you have to come to play.

“We have something like 19 straight winning seasons. We’ve got to finish. We put ourselves in the mix each year. We’re not worried about that right now. We’re worried about Week 1 and Charleston.”

Matt

Photos by Nate Kurtz/ PeNN West CaliforNia

Penn State University Nittany Lions

Penn State tired of playing third fiddle

By Travis Johnson Associated Press

STATE COLLEGE — Upon his arrival in Happy Valley, new Penn State offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki asked each of his new players a question that would shape their goals for spring practice.

What do they want this offense to be? The Nittany Lions’ answers, when combined, appear to be a recipe for success.

“They want to be explosive,” Kotelnicki said. “They want to be enthusiastic. They want to be confident in what they’re doing.”

A year after another third-fiddle finish to Ohio State and Michigan in the Big Ten’s now-defunct East Division, Penn State is determined to get there with new leadership on all sides of the ball.

Kotelnicki is the sixth offensive coordinator in head coach James Franklin’s 11 seasons at Penn State. At Kansas, Kotelnicki was part of a staff that directed a turnaround of what was the worst football program in Power Five for more than a decade.

Former Indiana head coach Tom Allen replaced Manny Diaz as the Nittany Lions’ new defensive coordinator after the latter became Duke’s head coach. Justin Lustig is now running Penn State’s special teams. For the last month, the new coordinators have been busy getting their first hands-on experience with a talented roster that returns most of its skill and experience from last season.

“We needed to feel like coming out of spring ball that our players have a bunch of confidence and understanding of how we want to play in really all three phases,” Franklin said. “Then on top of that, what are our strengths and what are our weaknesses? And be able to play to those strengths and be able to work on those weaknesses through training camp.”

So far, sophomore quarterback Drew Allar said, so good.

Like Kotelnicki, Allar foresees a point when Penn State can rotate receivers effectively at every wideout position thanks to the work they’ve put in this spring.

The Nittany Lions didn’t have that luxury last season, which became noticeable against the Buckeyes and Wolverines. Penn State receivers combined to catch just 18 of Allar’s 64 passes in both losses.

Former Buckeye wideout Julian Fleming joins KeAndre Lambert-Smith and tight end Tyler Warren to form what Allar believes

“

WE NEEDED TO FEEL LIKE COMING OUT OF SPRING BALL THAT OUR PLAYERS HAVE A BUNCH OF CONFIDENCE AND UNDERSTANDING OF HOW WE WANT TO PLAY IN REALLY ALL THREE PHASES. THEN ON TOP OF THAT, WHAT ARE OUR STRENGTHS AND WHAT ARE OUR WEAKNESSES? AND BE ABLE TO PLAY TO THOSE STRENGTHS AND BE ABLE TO WORK ON THOSE WEAKNESSES THROUGH TRAINING CAMP.”

JAMES FRANKLIN, PENN STATE FOOTBALL COACH

could be a dangerous set of downfield targets. Lambert-Smith led Penn State in yards and receptions last year while Warren, perhaps the team’s most versatile player, led the team with seven touchdown receptions.

Kotelnicki will need to wait until training camp for the offensive line to be at full strength. Tackle Drew Shelton is recovering from offseason surgery and a likely replacement for Olu Fashanu, who may be taken early in this month’s NFL draft.

Meanwhile, Allen will be the second former head coach to helm Penn State’s defense. He’s looking to pick up where Diaz left off as the Nittany Lions ended last season ranked second in total defense and third in scoring defense.

Allen has enjoyed the lighter workload as a coordinator. It’s allowed him to get back to his coaching roots.

“It’s kind of refreshing to be able to just focus on developing the players, coaching the players and the defense, the schematic part of it, the personnel side of it,” Allen said.

Star linebacker Abdul Carter has switched to defensive end to give the Nittany Lions a bit more snarl on the edges. That type of play appeals to Allen and he’s ramped up the team’s physicality as practice has continued.

“Tom is continuing a tradition here of playing hard, physical defense and running to the football,” Franklin said. “But I think so far so good with both (Allen and Kotelnicki). I know they’ve been impressed with our guys and the culture of how we practice and how we compete.”

AssociAted Press

Penn State is counting on a big season from quarterback Drew Allar to avoid another finish behind Michigan and Ohio State in the new-look Big Ten. AssociAted Press

Adbul Carter (11) has been moved from linebacker to defensive end to take advantage of his playmaking ability.

Pitt wrestles with bounce-back season University of Pittsburgh Panthers

Donovan McMillon roams Pitt’s secondary thinking about angles to take on a ballcarrier and the eagerness to take him down in a 1-on-1 shot.

The safety said his time on a very different stage – the wrestling mat – still influences how he manages those split-second moments.

“You’re trying to attack your opponent at his weakest angle, at his blind spot, and trying to get leverage,” McMillon said.

The Florida transfer who led the Panthers with 105 tackles – the most by a Pitt defender since 2015 – was a wrestler for three years of high school at Peters Township.

He still thinks like a wrestler, too.

“When I see that running back, tight end, receiver, even quarterback in the open, making a move, it really comes down to me seeing where he’s spotting and what I think he’s going to do,” he said. “And I attack that spot.”

McMillon thrived in wrestling as he grew about five inches in a year toward his current 6-2 frame, including being the PIAA Class 3A runner-up at 182 pounds in 2020.

He said getting in wrestling shape is “by far the hardest shape I think in any sport,” describing a routine of running a few miles and lifting weights before school, not eating because of cutting weight, running some more, having a match, eat a big meal – and then start all over again.

“At the end of the day I might not be in that shape I used to be in,” he said, “but that (wrestling) shape is in my head. … I can move and play 70, 80 snaps a game and I’m not worried about anything.”

McMillon and Pitt want to wrestle away a few more wins from opponents than they did a year ago, when the Panthers went 3-9, their worst record since 1998. It was also only the second time Pitt missed a bowl game under head coach Pat Narduzzi.

Narduzzi is confident in the Panthers’ ability to turn the 2024 campaign into a bounceback season and build on his legacy in his 10th season.

“I think you build your legacy year-byyear,” Narduzzi said. “We’re focused on getting back to where we need to be.”

Narduzzi certainly hasn’t lost sight of just how disappointing 2023 was. That is evident in the many offseason changes made to the Panthers’ coaching staff, particularly on offense.

In the ACC, Pitt ranked dead last in total yards and points per game in 2023.

Following the season, Narduzzi fired

offensive coordinator Frank Cignetti Jr., offensive line coach Dave Borbely, tight ends coach Tim Salem, and running backs and special teams coach Andre Powell in a major overhaul of the offensive coaching staff.

Additionally, wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator Tiquan Underwood departed for the NFL.

Narduzzi hired Kade Bell from Western Carolina as the offensive coordinator. Bell brought with him Jeremy Darveau for the offensive line and JJ Laster for wide receivers. Jacob Bronowski, formerly of Miami (Ohio), was hired to oversee tight ends and special teams, while Lindsey Lamar from Howard takes over as running backs coach.

“I couldn’t be more excited,” Narduzzi said. “I want to turn our offense loose.”

The quest for an impact quarterback enters Year 3 for Pitt. First-year starter Nate Yarnell looks to improve on the play of predecessors Kedon Slovis (2022) and Phil Jurkovec (2023), neither of whom fulfilled expectations. A 6-6 junior, Yarnell went 1-1 in two late-season starts, completing 66 percent of his passes for 595 yards with four touchdowns. Narduzzi powerfully endorsed Yarnell as his QB entering spring drills yet seemed open to change upon observing freshman Alabama transfer Eli Holstein. Transfer wideouts Raphael Williams Jr. and Censere Lee played for Bell at WCU, the latter amassing 82 receptions for 1,426 yards with 14 touchdowns over the last two seasons. Others who could aid the passing game are Konata Mumpfield and under-utilized senior tight end Gavin Bartholomew.

Rodney Hammond Jr., the 2022 Sun Bowl MVP who ran for 547 yards last year, leads a deep but inexperienced group of backs. The line, anchored by tackle Branson Taylor, returns four starters.

Pitt has only two starters, including McMillon, returning on defense.

Veteran coordinator Randy Bates must be creative in how he uses potential playmakers in safeties Cruce Brookins and Javon McIntyre.

While Narduzzi’s defenses are typically a strong suit, starting spots on the line are wide open aside from Kansas State transfer Nate Matlack. All three linebacker spots will be filled by new starters - some combination of returners and Ohio transfer Keye Thompson.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

AssociAted Press

This could be a breakout season for tight end Gavin Bartholomew (86) and one in which Pitt soars back toward the top of the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Washington & Jefferson College Presidents

Toughness will be key to W&J’s improvement

By John Sacco

For the Observer-Reporter

The stated goal for the 2023 season was a return to greatness for the Washington & Jefferson College football team.

Longtime head coach Mike Sirianni talked about it at the Presidents’ Athletic Conference preseason media day.

While the Presidents reeled off four consecutive wins to start the season, a road loss to Grove City in its fifth game, assured W&J of remaining “very good.” A return to greatness and, almost assuredly, a PAC title and spot in the NCAA Division III playoffs were no longer possible.

The Wolverines had defeated W&J, Carnegie Mellon and Case Western Reserve and all but locked up the conference title midway through the season.

The unusual situation made for some interesting games in the final five regular-season games where the Presidents nearly squandered leads of 28 (Allegheny), 26 (Waynesburg) and 18 (Case Western Reserve) points. Those three games ended with W&J winning by two five-point margins and a seven-point victory. In the middle of that was a blowout, 21-point loss to Carnegie Mellon, 35-14.

“It wasn’t good enough and anyone part of our program will say that,” Sirianni said. “We must get better because no one is going to come back to that.

“I looked at these teams who have beaten us and won conference championships and its toughness. That’s what we’ve focused on. We must do something different, something better. We’re going to do everything to try and win. We’re going to compete at everything.”

None of that is lost on a core group of seniors and fifth-year players. It makes 2024 a last chance to be great and for W&J to achieve its first PAC championship and NCAA playoff berth since 2018.

W&J finished last season at 9-2 overall with a season-ending 46-21 victory over U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in the ECAC James Lynah Bowl at Cameron Stadium.

“I feel confident,” said linebacker Justin Johns. “Last season, we suffered from a lack of communication defensively. We must be a whole lot better at that.”

Johns said he has no concerns about the loss of defensive coordinator Vince Luvara, who became head coach at Hampden-Sydney, and transition to Phil Bobich, who was promoted to DC.

from behind this year.

“We’re definitely capable,” Johns said. “And have been capable. But we have fallen short each time. We’ve been close but that’s not good enough.

“I debated about coming back for this season. There’s too much left that is undone.”

Johns admits success begins along the line of scrimmage. Senior lineman Dawson Dietz – a two-time All-American –mans the W&J front.

“The communication issues were worked out in the spring,” Dietz said. “He (Bobich) knows what he’s doing. I can’t speak about any other unit, but the defensive line went down last season in sacks and tackles for loss. Getting pressure and into the backfield is a must. Our defensive line needs to step up and play like we did in 2022.

“We have all the talent and the work ethic to do well. We have what we need to do it. I know we ‘re a contender. We need to win now.”

In addition to Johns and Dietz, other

starters returning to the defense are senior linemen Avery Keith and Sean Berardino, senior defensive back Zachai Simmons, junior defensive backs Aaron Carothers and Carson Laconi and fifthyear defensive back Brandon Brown. Senior Zach Valentine fortifies the line and Keaton Hall is back at linebacker.

Offensively, W&J is loaded with skill, starting with senior quarterback Jake Pugh and junior wide receivers John Peduzzi and Jacob Macosko and fifth-year Anthony Rosati.

Top rusher Owen Petrisek averaged 7.9 yards per carry and gained 507 yards. He led the team despite having 30 fewer rushes than the team leader.

Also returning are juniors Troy Volpatti, 393 yards (4.2 yards per carry), and Kobe Derosa, who gained 360 yards and averaged 6.3 yards per attempt.

Other returning starters are H-Back Zach Cernuto, a senior, and linemen Grant Cullen, a center; tackle Eddie Nicotra, both seniors, fifth-year guard Adam

Kozera and junior tackle Elijah Staub. Pugh threw for 38 TD passes, completing 202 of 312 passes (64.7 percent) for 2,984 yards.

“I think the more we ran it last season the offense was more successful,” Pugh said. “We have a stable of three backs and a special guy in Cernuto. We need to possess the ball.”

If W&J will commit to that, it could allow Pugh to have even more success with his outstanding receiving corps.

“Those guys make it so easy,” Pugh said. “I put it up there and they go get it. We have a connection.”

One thing different about W&J’s offense is the loss of coordinator Aaron Krepps.

“Aaron was a great coach,” Peduzzi said. “But I have faith our head coach will do a great job. We’re returning just about all our skill players and linemen. We have a chance to be all-around dominant. If we play together, we’ll be hard to stop.”

If wide receiver John Peduzzi and W&J can get in front of their opponents in the PAC standings, then it might be difficult to catch them

Mark Marietta/For the observer-reporter

Troy Volpatti is one of three returning running backs who rushed for more than 300 yards last season.

Yellow Jackets aim to win the close ones Waynesburg University Yellow Jackets

By John Sacco

For the Observer-Reporter

The record says Waynesburg University’s football team went 2-8 last season, losing five straight games to open the season.

The Presidents’ Athletic Conference annual preseason poll, voted on by media, conference coaches and sports information directors, suggests more of the same in 2024. Don’t tell anyone associated with the Yellow Jackets that. They’re not buying it.

“We’re excited about the journey and what we have coming back,” said Dr. Cornelius Coleman, now in his third year as Waynesburg’s head coach. “For us to sit back as a coaching staff and look at our young men and to now have (more than) 40 juniors on the roster and have a strength with our returning senior class, we’re excited about the new-found leadership in our program.”

One of the Yellow Jackets’ top returning players is thinking much the opposite than pollsters and pundits.

The goal?

“Get into a bowl game, postseason game,” said junior wide receiver Isaac Trout, who led the 2023 team in receptions with 43 for 457 yards (10.6 yards per catch) with five touchdowns. “The goal for me is to improve myself and for us to improve as a team.

“A lot of it is learning how to win. We lost a lot of close games last season. We must learn how to finish, make that big fourth-quarter push.”

In all, Waynesburg was involved in six games that were one-score contests in the fourth quarter.

From the first game – a disheartening 39-36 overtime loss to Allegheny – to a season-ending 33-28 loss at Washington & Jefferson, the Yellow Jackets had a handful of “what if” outcomes to stew over in the offseason.

“I never knew that stat before our SID (Andy Stanko) told me,” Coleman said. “As a coach, whether we win by 50 or one or lose by one or 50, at the end of the day a loss is a loss and a win is a win.

“It does show you the growth we are building. To know from our standpoint, we are getting better in our program, better in different phases, offensively, defensively and special teams (is important). We also have a group learning how to appreciate each other, understand each other, love each other and show we are doing it the right way. It’s not happening overnight but we’re com-

fortable with the process that the young men we have, who we’ve selected and who we are putting on the table.”

In addition to Trout, other returning starters for the Yellow Jackets on offense are senior quarterback Samuel Barber and juniors Jacob Brisky (6-3, 270), Isaiah Grenway (6-0, 320), Dalton Scruggs (6-5, 350), all linemen; halfback Seyke Miles and tight end Dagyn Williams (6-0, 205).

Waynesburg returns six starters on defense including seniors Brennan Boron, Brandon Tyson and JaVionne Smith, all defensive backs; junior linebacker Jemuel Cypress, junior defensive lineman Jack Nagy and fifth-year defensive lineman Chase Nicomatti.

Another player to watch is junior running back Zayne Cawley, All-PAC last season, with 865 yards rushing (6.1 yards per carry) and nine touchdowns. Cawley set the school’s single-game rushing record with 336 yards against Bethany.

“We want to win it all,” Tyson said. “The

“ IT’S

OUR LEADERSHIP GROUP, WHICH HAS BEEN ABLE TO BOND TOGETHER AND MAKE THINGS COMPETITIVE. WE’RE EXCITED ABOUT GROWTH IN OUR BALL CLUB WITH THE YOUNG PLAYERS REGARDING RETENTION AND LEADERSHIP.” DR. CORNELIUS COLEMAN, WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL COACH

last few years we’ve had the talent to do it and a couple things held us back. We have to stop beating ourselves.

“One of the teams last year – W&J – we went up there and played together and fell short. I’m not worried about any other team on our schedule.”

Why will Waynesburg exceed preseason the expectations of others?

“It’s our leadership group, which has been able to bond together and make things competitive,” Coleman said. “We’re excited about growth in our ballclub with the young players regarding retention and leadership.

“As a first-year head coach, I was the defensive coordinator, defensive line coach and by the fifth game, I was linebacker coach.

Last year, I was head coach also defensive line coach. This is the first year that I can sit back and be head coach and guide the young men and assistant coaches we have. The continuity we have the last several years not just with the players but with staff, I’m excited about it.”

The early part of Waynesburg schedule features four of the top five teams rated in the PAC. The Yellow Jackets host Case Western Reserve (4th) in its opener before playing bat Westminster (5th), hosting W&J (3rd), playing at St. Vincent and at Carnegie Mellon (2nd).

“We don’t have the liberty of making our own schedule,” Coleman said. “It will be interesting.”

Waynesburg university

Running back Zayne Cawley set Waynesburg’s single-game rushing record with 336 yards against Bethany.

Mountaineers still seeking respect West Virginia University Mountaineers

By Bob Hertzel

For the Observer-Reporter

As the West Virginia football team went into the summer of ’23, it had no respect.

Neal Brown’s job as head coach was less secure than a Boeing exit door, the team was about to be picked 14th and last in the Big 12 Conference’s preseason poll and quietly media types were already beginning to compile lists of potential coaching replacements.

Today, however, as Brown enters the season with a contract extension through 2026, his team enters coming off a nine-victory season after surprising everyone with a solid performance.

They have sent center Zach Frazier into the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a second-round draft pick and Mountaineers’ names are beginning to appear on NFL draft lists.

Respect is growing, he acknowledges, but he argues this is a work in progress.

“The respect this year is medium,” he said. “All the national magazines are coming out. We’re not in the preseason Top 25 more than we’re in. I don’t know how many nine-win teams are not in the Top 25, but we’re on the outside of most of those.”

And, yes, they are no longer looked at as a last-place finisher in a changing Big 12, but neither are they looked upon as a championship contender.

“Most of the Big 12 stuff, we’re in the middle of the pack. It’s not like we’re on the top of these preseason things,” Brown said. “It’s different than a year ago, yes ... But I still don’t think we’re on people’s radar like we should be.”

A year ago the most familiar name on the Mountaineers was Frazier, a fixture at center and an All-American, but let’s face it, you don’t sell tickets on a star center.

This year, though, there are players with a touch of notoriety.

Quarterback Garrett Greene, seen as a liability entering last season, is now a known commodity. Freshman running back Jahiem White came out of nowhere to become the top freshman running back in the country. All-conference teams are beginning to notice Wyatt Milum, an offensive tackle, and safety Aubrey Burks.

It seems to be happening, the change from the Dana Holgorsen debacle that left the cupboard bare.

Now, Brown is playing with players he

Quarterback Garrett

(6) accounted for more than 3,000 yards total offense and 29 touchdowns last year.

has brought in and developed. A coaching change normally takes a while to take hold.

But there’s still a way to go.

“Wyatt Milum, he’s as good as any offensive tackle in the country and he’s getting some recognition, but I think he’s even better than the recognition he’s getting,” Brown said. “I think (defensive lineman) Sean Martin has an opportunity to play himself into a possible early round pick. I think he has those kind of traits.

“I think Aubrey Burks has an opportunity to play himself into it. You look at both the running backs, Jahiem White and CJ Donaldson; look at (offensive lineman) Tomas Rimac ... We have some guys who are showing up on NFL draft charts.”

And then there’s Greene, the poster boy of

disrespect for WVU players.

“I think Garrett is interesting,” Brown said. “His stats last year are really, really good. I think people recognize him as a good player, but I don’t think he’s getting the recognition that he deserves.

“Part of that is because there are a lot of high quality quarterbacks in our league, but I like our guy.”

Brown isn’t shy about singing Greene’s praises and predicts stardom.

“I think it’s an opportunity for Garrett. I think he’s sitting on a big jump, especially throwing the football,” Brown said.

What’s really intriguing about Greene’s image is that he may be suffering through no fault of his own.

Think of it this way: How might people be

looking upon Greene had Houston not pulled off a miracle Hail Mary completion against WVU to win that game, the play coming right after Greene had thrown what would have been a game-winning TD pass to Hudson Clement with 21 seconds remaining?

How might he be rated coming into this season off a 10-win, not 9-win season, and with a game-winning touchdown pass on his resume?

“It’s fair to think it would be different,” Brown agreed.

“Quarterbacks, right or wrong, are always judged on wins and I think if we were a 10- or 11-win team his national recognition would be a little bit higher, but I do think he’s being undervalued.”

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Steelers’ roster might be best since last Super Bowl appearance Pittsburgh Steelers

By Jim Wexell

For the Observer-Reporter

This might be the best roster the Steelers have put together since their last Super Bowl season 14 years ago.

They’ve been through two rebuilds since, but couldn’t quite get over the hump because either the quarterback was aging and took up too much cap space, or the quarterback was a rookie who couldn’t guide them to a playoff win by the end of his second season.

The entire quarterback depth chart has changed, as has the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

In a stroke of good fortune, the starting quarterback, whilst possessing Super Bowl experience, was brought in at a minimum-wage cost.

With their excess cap space, the Steelers were able to fill holes, and even have money left over to add a blue-chip wide receiver if they decide to part with enough draft capital.

Let’s break it all down:

Quarterback

Yes, Russell Wilson has a ring, been to two Super Bowls, and just might have another one in him at age 35.

But he remains a question mark. Wilson strained a calf muscle while pushing a blocking sled in a new conditioning test the first day of training camp and was limited the first two weeks. He returned to start the third week, but has yet to flash the mobility that’s not only marked his career but his spring workouts in Pittsburgh.

Behind Wilson is the talented but inconsistent Justin Fields, who’s trying to live up to the potential that caused the Bears to draft him 11th overall in 2021. The other newcomer is seventh-year vet Kyle Allen, most recently of the Bills. It’s a veteran group but a mystery group. If Wilson still has his old magic, and/ or Fields lives up to his promise out of Ohio State, the Steelers could ride them a long way. Grade: B+.

Cameron Heyward can return to his former glory after suffering a groin injury that marred last season. So far, Heyward looks strong in camp. His nose tackle is rising star Keeanu Benton, and next to Benton is veteran Larry Ogunjobi. Exciting depth is being provided by a couple of active big men Montravius Adams and DeMarvin Leal.

Grade: B+.

Linebackers

This position has provided the backbone for all of the great Steelers teams, and this year it appears the Steelers once again have that level of linebacking. Led by T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, the Steelers have an outstanding pair of pass-rushers, with second-year man Nick Herbig looking to add to his impressive rookie edge-rushing season. Inside, thumper Elandon Roberts is joined by speedy Patrick Queen – signed from the Ravens –and impressive rookie Payton Wilson. Grade: A+

Secondary

Running back

Najee Harris lost needed weight and Jaylen Warren returned even stronger as those two look to improve on the solid 1-2 punch of last season. Cordarrelle Patterson is 33, and his production declined last season, but his head coach in Atlanta, new Steelers coordinator Arthur Smith, believes Patterson has life left. There’s a solid first-year fullback, Jack Colletto. Grade: AReceiver

George Pickens returned in great shape, but early in camp engaged in a shouting match with his new wide receivers coach, the discipline-minded Zach Azzanni, who was brought in with Pickens in mind. It seems to have worked. Pickens took the tough love poorly the first week, but has since responded well. But across from

Pickens is the team’s biggest question mark. The answer appears to be Van Jefferson, who has size and speed, but the Steelers’ attempts to trade for Brandon Aiyuk say they don’t really trust Jefferson. The fact the 49ers asked for two No. 1 draft picks and don’t want any of the Steelers WRs in return, tells us what they think of Jefferson, who once played for their division-rival Rams. Behind Jefferson are small speedburners Calvin Austin, Scotty Miller and Quez Watkins. Smith’s offense relies heavily on multiple tight ends, so Pat Freiermuth will be joined by massive blocking TE Darnell Washington and playmaker Connor Heyward. Grade: BOffensive line

It’s a veteran line that’s been bolstered by three high draft picks, first-rounder Troy Fautanu, second-rounder Zach Frazier and

fourth-rounder Mason McCormick. They could force the Steelers to keep 10 O-linemen. But how long will it take for the rookies to fit in? Frazier, the center, appears to be making the first move after veteran Nate Herbig was part of two fumbled center-QB exchanges in nine snaps in the preseason opener. Fautanu had begun taking some first-team reps at right tackle, which would force Broderick Jones to left tackle. But Fautanu sprained his knee against Houston and will miss two weeks. So, Dan Moore will remain the starter at left tackle for the time being. The starting guards are veterans Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels. Grade: B. Defensive line

This is another veteran front with young depth. The only question mark is whether 35-year-old

Minkah Fitzpatrick provides a third blue-chip player for the secondary, giving these Steelers the firepower to regain their elite status. DeShon Elliott is another former Raven acquired in free agency and will provide physicality and speed at strong safety, with Damontae Kazee a third safety. Joey Porter Jr. appears primed for a Pro Bowl second season as the shutdown cornerback. He’ll play opposite Donte Jackson, a fast and experienced cornerback acquired in the trade of Dionte Johnson. Depth at cornerback and slot cornerback remain question marks.

Grade: B+.

Special teams

Free agent acquisition Cameron Johnston has put on shows at camp as the new boomer at punter. With Johnston, placekicker Chris Boswell, kickoff returner Patterson, and coverage aces Miles Killebrew and Tyler Matakevich, the Steelers possess five Pro Bowl-caliber special teamers. Grade: A+.

Brook Ward/For the oBserver-reporter

Quarterback Russell Wilson (3) was brought in to be the Steelers’ quarterback, but the veteran is being pushed for the starting job by Justin Fields.

AVELLA

Aug. 23 – at Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – Carlynton, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Springdale, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at West Greene, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at California, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Carmichaels, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Bentworth, 7 p.m.

BELLE VERNON

Aug. 30 – at Aliquippa, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Central Valley, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at McKeesport, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – South Fayette, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Thomas Jefferson, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Chartiers Valley, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Laurel Highlands, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Ringgold, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Trinity, 7 p.m.

BENTWORTH

Aug. 23 – at Brownsville, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – Burgettstown, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Charleroi, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – California, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Carmichaels, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at West Greene, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Avella, 7 p.m.

BETH-CENTER

Aug. 23 – Riverview, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Leechburg, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Monessen, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Carmichaels, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Avella, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – California, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – West Greene, 7 p.m.

2024 game schedules

BETHEL PARK

Aug. 23 – at Seneca Valley, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Mars, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Armstrong, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – West Mifflin, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Trinity, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Moon, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Baldwin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Upper St. Clair, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – South Fayette, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Peters Township, 7 p.m.

BURGETTSTOWN

Aug. 30 – at Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Cornell, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Chartiers-Houston, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Fort Cherry, 7 p.m.

Oct. 5 – Neshannock, 2 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Monessen, 11 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Serra catholic, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Bishop Canevin, 7 p.m.

CALIFORNIA

Aug. 23 – Serra Catholic, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Cornell, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Waynesburg, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Avella, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Carmichaels, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at West Greene, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

TACKLE HOME RENOVATIONS

CHAMPION!

CANON-McMILLAN

Aug. 23 – Peters Township, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – Upper St. Clair, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at South Fayette, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Armstrong, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Mt. Lebanon, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Hempfield, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Seneca Valley, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – North Allegheny, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Norwin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Central Catholic, 7:30 p.m.

CARMICHAELS

Aug. 30 – at Sto-Rox, 5 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Frazier, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at California, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Avella, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – West Greene, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Mapletown, 7 p.m.

CHARLEROI

Aug. 23 – at Monessen, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – Yough, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Seton-LaSalle, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Keystone Oaks, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Sto-Rox, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Ligonier Valley, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Washington, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Waynesburg, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Carlynton, 7 p.m.

CHARTIERS-HOUSTON

Aug. 23 – Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Springdale, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Fort Cherry, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Burgettstown, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Bishop Canevin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Monessen, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Serra Catholic, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Cornell, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Northgate, 7 p.m.

CHARTIERS VALLEY

Aug. 23 – at South Fayette, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at West Allegheny, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Indiana, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Baldwin, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Hampton, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Laurel Highlands, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Belle Vernon, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Trinity, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Thomas Jefferson, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Ringgold, 7 p.m.

FORT

CHERRY

Aug. 23 – Northgate, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – OLSH, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at West Greene, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Chartiers-Houston, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Monessen, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Burgettstown, 7 p-.m.

Oct. 4 – Cornell, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Bishop Canevin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Shenango, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Serra Catholic, 7 p.m.

JEFFERSON-MORGAN

Aug. 23 – at Chartiers-Houston, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Waynesburg, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Burgettstown, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Carmichaels, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – West Greene, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Avella, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at California, 7 p.m.

MAPLETOWN

Aug. 23 – Avella, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Frazier, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Chartiers-Houston, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – West Greene, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at California, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Avella, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Carmichaels, 7 p.m.

McGUFFEY

Aug. 23 – Washington, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Trinity, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at West Allegheny, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Central Valley, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – North Catholic, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Beaver, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Hopewell, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Avonworth, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Highlands, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Quaker Valley, 7 p.m.

MONESSEN

Aug. 23 – Charleroi, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – West Greene, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Serra Catholic, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Fort Cherry, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at South Side Beaver, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Chartiers-Houston, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Burgettstown, 7 p.m.

Oct. 19 – at Bishop canevin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Cornell, 7 p.m.

MT. LEBANON

Aug. 23 – at Upper St. Clair, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Penn-Trafford, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Peters Township, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Central Catholic, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Canon-McMillan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Seneca Valley, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – North Allegheny, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Penn Hills, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Hempfield, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Norwin, 7 p.m.

GAME ON

PETERS TOWNSHIP

Aug. 23 – at Canon-McMillan, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – McKeesport, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Mt. Lebanon, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Trinity, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at West Allegheny, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Upper St. Clair, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Moon, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – South Fayette, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Baldwin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Bethel Park, 7 p.m.

RINGGOLD

Aug. 23 – South Allegheny, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Indiana, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at Yough, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Greensburg Salem, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – Southmoreland, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Trinity, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Laurel Highlands, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Thomas Jefferson, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Belle Vernon, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Chartiers Valley, 7 p.m.

SOUTH FAYETTE

Aug. 23 – Chartiers Valley, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – Shaler, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Canon-McMillan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Elizabeth Forward, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Belle Vernon, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Baldwin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Upper St. Clair, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Peters Township, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Bethel Park, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Moon, 7 p.m.

TRINITY

Aug. 23 – at Moon, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – McGuffey, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Montour, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Peters Township, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Bethel Park, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Ringgold, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Thomas Jefferson, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Chartiers Valley, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Laurel Highlands, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Belle Vernon, 7 p.m.

UPPER ST. CLAIR

Aug. 23 – Mt. Lebanon, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Canon-McMillan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Franklin Regional, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Hampton, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at McKeesport, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Peters Township, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at South Fayette, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – at Bethel Park, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Moon, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Baldwin, 7 p.m.

WASHINGTON

Aug. 23 – at McGuffey, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Steel Valley, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Union, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Waynesburg, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Sto-Rox, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – South Park, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – at Keystone Oaks, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Charleroi, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Carlynton, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Seton-LaSalle, 7 p.m.

WAYNESBURG

Aug. 23 – at West Greene, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – at California, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – at Washington, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Steel Valley, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – Seton-La Salle, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Carlynton, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – Keystone Oaks, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Charleroi, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – Sto-Rox, 7 p.m.

WEST GREENE

Aug. 23 – Waynesburg, 7 p.m.

Aug. 30 – at Monessen, 7 p.m.

Sept. 6 – Fort Cherry, 7 p.m.

Sept. 13 – Avella, 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 – at Mapletown, 7 p.m.

Sept. 27 – at Jefferson-Morgan, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 – Bentworth, 7 p.m.

Oct. 11 – California, 7 p.m.

Oct. 18 – at Carmichaels, 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 – at Beth-Center, 7 p.m.

PENN WEST CALIFORNIA

Sept. 7 – at Charleston, noon

Sept. 14 – at West Chester, noon

Sept. 21 – at Lock Haven, 1 p.m.

Sept. 28 – Gannon, noon

Oct. 5 – at Clarion, 2 p.m.

Oct. 12 – at Seton Hill, 4 p.m.

Oct. 19 – Slippery Rock, 3 p.m.

Oct. 26 – Indiana, noon

Nov. 9 – Edinboro, noon

Nov. 16 – Shippensburg, noon

PENN STATE

Aug. 31 – at West Virginia, noon

Sept. 7 – Bowling Green, noon

Sept. 21 – Kent State, TBD

Sept. 28 – Illinois, TBD

Oct. 5 – UCLA, TBD

Oct. 12 – at USC, TBD

Oct. 26 – at Wisconsin, TBD

Nov. 2 – Ohio State, TBD

Nov. 9 – Washington, TBD

Nov. 16 – at Purdue, TBD

Nov. 23 – at Minnesota, TBD

Nov. 30 – Maryland, TBD

PITT

Aug. 31 — vs. Kent State, noon

Sept. 7 – at Cincinnati, noon

Sept. 14 – vs. West Virginia, 3:30 p.m.

Sept. 21 – vs. Youngstown State, 3:30 p.m.

Oct. 5 – at North Carolina, TBD

Oct. 12 – vs. California, TBD

Oct. 24 – vs. Syracuse, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 2 – at SMU, TBD

Nov. 9 – vs. Virginia, TBD

Nov. 16 – vs. Clemson, TBD

Nov. 23 – at Louisville. TBD

Nov. 30 – at Boston College, TBD

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Preseason

Aug. 9 – vs. Houston, 7 p.m.

Aug. 17 – vs. Buffalo, 7 p.m.

TBD – at Detroit, TBD

Regular Season

Sept. 8 – at Atlanta, 1 p.m.

Sept. 15 – at Denver, 4:25 p.m.

WASHINGTON & JEFFERSON

Sept. 7 – Saint Vincent, 1 p.m.

Sept. 14 – at Thiel, 7 p.m.

Sept. 21 – at Waynesburg, 1 p.m.

Sept. 28 – Carnegie Mellon, 2 p.m.

Oct. 5 – at Westminster, 1 p.m.

Oct. 12 – Geneva, 1 p.m.

Oct. 19 – Grove City, 6 p.m.

Oct. 26 – Bethany, 1 p.m.

Nov. 2 – at Case Western Reserve, 1 p.m.

Nov. 16 – at Allegheny, 1 p.m.

WAYNESBURG

Sept. 7 – Case Western Reserve, 1 p.m.

Sept. 14 – at Westminster, 1 p.m.

Sept. 21 – Washington & Jefferson, 1 p.m.

Sept. 28 – at Saint Vincent, 1 p.m.

Oct. 5 – at Carnegie Mellon, 7 p.m.

Oct. 19 – Bethany, 1 p.m.

Oct. 26 – at Allegheny, 1 p.m.

Nov. 2 – Grove City, 1 p.m.

Nov. 9 – Thiel, 1 p.m.

Nov. 16 – at Geneva, 1 p.m.

WEST VIRGINIA

Aug. 31 – vs. Penn State, noon

Sept. 7 – vs. Albany, 6 p.m.

Sept. 14 – at Pitt, 3:30 p.m.

Sept. 21 vs. Kansas, TBD

Oct. 5 – at Oklahoma State, TBD

Oct. 12 – vs. Iowa State, TBD

Oct. 19 – vs. Kansas State, TBD

Oct. 26 – at Arizona, TBD

Nov. 7,8 or 9 – at Cincinnati, TBD

Nov. 16 – vs. Baylor, TBD

Nov. 23 – vs. Central Florida, TBD

Nov. 30 – at Texas Tech, TBD

Sept. 22 vs. L.A. Chargers, 1 p.m.

Sept. 29 – at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.

Oct. 6 – vs. Dallas, 8:20 p.m.

Oct. 13 – at Las Vegas, 4:05 p.m.

Oct. 20 -- vs. New York Jets, 8:20 p.m.

Oct. 28 – vs. New York Giants, 8:15 p.m.

Bye

Nov. 10 – at Washington, 1 p.m.

Nov. 17 – vs. Baltimore, 1 p.m.

Nov. 21 – at Cleveland, 8:15 p.m.

Dec. 1 – at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.

Dec. 8 – vs. Cleveland, 1 p.m.

Dec. 15 – at Philadelphia, 4:25 p.m.

Dec. 21 – at Baltimore, 4:30 p.m.

Dec. 25 – vs. Kansas City, 1 p.m.

TBD – vs. Cincinnati, TBD

Saving’s as easy as 1-2-3

Best Wishes to All Student Athletes!

From Our Team to Yours

Open an Education Club Savings Account, and let your future dreams start adding up.

Plus, you may qualify for a scholarship upon high school graduation!

Current high school students can stop by one of our branches in Waynesburg, Carmichaels, Mt. Morris, Washington or Taylorstown to start saving today. For more information, including account rules and scholarship eligibility, visit the ALL-NEW www.ffgc.bank.

Armando Avolio Jr., MD

Joint Replacements, Sports Medicine/Arthroscopic Surgeries, General Orthopaedics

Gregory B. Christiansen, MD

Orthopaedic Shoulder, Arthroscopic, and Sports Medicine

Derrick Fluhme, MD

Joint Replacements, Sports Medicine/Arthroscopic Surgeries, Regenerative Orthopedics

John M. Gibbons, MD

Joint Replacement, Arthroscopic, and General Orthopaedics

Patrick T. McCulloch, MD

Board Certified Hand Surgeon

Sham J Persaud, D.P.M.

Fellowship Trained Foot and Ankle Surgeon

Vincent J. Ripepi, DO

Joint Replacement, Arthroscopic, and General Orthopaedics

Joseph P. Stracci, DO

Joint Replacement, Arthroscopic, and General Orthopaedics