W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
-
THE CHOPS
- Official BleacherCoach
- Posts: 1900
- Joined: October 24th, 2003, 10:42 am
- Location: SCOTTDALE, PA.
W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
Well, Eight teams have had their ticket punched for Championship Friday in the W.P.I.A.L. football playoffs. Some of the eight are recent winners of district gold while some haven't tasted a W.P.I.A.L. football championship in decades. Here are some recaps from Final Four Friday on the Highway to Heinz.
Thanks to Paul Paterra, Bob Orkwis, Bob Gregg, Don Rebel, Lee Mohn, Mark Schaas, Sam Hall and Rob Matzie for their help in these recaps.
CLASS (AAAA) SEMIFINALS:
Pittsburgh Central Catholic Vikings 24 - McKeesport Tigers 13
The Vikings ended the Tigers season for the second consecutive year by defeating McKeesport 24-13 for the second straight year; this time the semi-final win put Central into the championship for the third time since 2003. Tino Sunseri and Andrew Taglianetti played big parts in the Vikings victory. Sunseri, who threw touchdown passes of 20-yards to Quentin Williams and 22-yards to Brian Friend, finished the contest 9-of-14 passing for 136-yards. Taglianetti, who ran 83-yards for a touchdown, finished the game with 150-yards rushing on 12-carries. The Vikings defense also contributed to the win by forcing five McKeesport fumbles. The Tigers, who had a major time-of-possession advantage in the game, also got a big game from Nico Price, who rushed for 106-yards on 31-carries, and quarterback JJ Eckles, who ran for 92-yards and two touchdowns. In addition to the turnovers, McKeesport also played without star running back Marvase Byrd, who was injured in the Tigers overtime win against Norwin. Matt Oczypok added a 30-yard field goal for Central, who improved to (12-0) with the win. McKeesport’s season ended at (10-2). The Vikings, the number one seed in the Quad-A Tournament, will face third seeded Gateway (11-1) on Friday in the championship game. Central Catholic last played for the WPIAL Title in 2004, when they defeated Gateway 28-0 on their way to a (16-0) season and their second PIAA State Championship.
Gateway Gators 28 - North Allegheny Tigers 27 ~ {in Overtime}....
Trailing by 14 points early in the fourth quarter, the Gateway Gators battled back to tie this contest at 21 with 1:00 remaining, and then held off the Tigers in overtime to advance to Heinz Field with a 28-27 win. North Allegheny struck first with a big play, a 74-yard TD pass from QB Mike Locke to WR Brian Austin with 3:25 left in the first quarter. Austin would leave the game after being injured on a kickoff late in the first quarter. The Gators would tie things up in the second quarter, with an impressive 8 play 98-yard drive that featured Cameron Saddler. Saddler carried the ball ever play on the drive, which included a 15-face mask against the Tigers. Saddler carried the ball on 17 consecutive plays in the first half. NA had the answer in Carl DeCiantis. DeCiantis capped the ensuing drive with a 4-yard touchdown run which gave North Allegheny a 14-7 lead at halftime. DeCiantis, who finished the game with 103-yards on 20 carries, had tallied a touchdown in every game this season for North Allegheny. The Tigers would capitalize on a fourth Gator turnover, when Alex Calder stole the ball from Leon Green at the Gateway 10-yard line. Two plays later, Locke would find Geoff Greco with a 10-yard scoring strike, and 5-yards into the fourth quarter, the Tigers lead 21-7. That’s when the comeback began. Halfway through the quarter, Green capped of a 59-yard drive with a 6-yard run, after the Tigers chose to go for it on fourth down instead of punting. After a Greco punt resulted in a touchback, the Gators started at their own 20-yard line with 6:20 left on the clock. Gateway was faced with a 4th & 9 with 2:20 remaining, when a pass interference call against NA gave the Gators a first down at the Tiger 49-yard line. On third and 11, sophomore quarterback Rob Kalkstein ran for a crucial first down. Kalkstein then hit Jonathon Pryor with a 27 pass to the Tiger 12-yard line. Saddler, who left the drive early with leg cramps, returned and ran for 4-yards and capped off the drive with an 8-yard run with a minute left. Ryan Lichtenstein nailed the extra point and the game was tied at 21-21. NA would drive near mid-field before time ran out in regulation. Gateway had the first opportunity in overtime and scored first. Saddler carried three times and despite an illegal motion penalty against Gateway, found the end zone for the third time from three yard. Lichtenstein’s point after made the score 28-21. North Allegheny wasted little time in answering, when Locke found Greco from 10-yards in almost an exact replay of their earlier touchdown. While the Tigers were lined up to kick the extra point, Gateway was penalized for an illegal substitution, which moved the ball a yard-and-a half away from the goal line. NA head coach Art Walker called time out and the Tigers decided to go for the win. Greco lined up at quarterback, took the direct snapped and jumped towards the pile at the line of scrimmage. His second effort was also thwarted by the Gators defense, and Gateway came away with a one-point victory. The loss was the first in twelve games for the second seeded Tigers. Gateway, the third seed in the WPIAL Quad-A tournament, improved to (11-1). Saddler, who finished the game with 34 carries for 240-yards, now has 28 touchdowns on the season. The Gators will face top-seeded Pittsburgh Central Catholic on Friday in the AAAA title game. The Vikings defeated McKeesport 24-13 to improve to (12-0). The trip to Heinz Field marks the first championship appearance for Gateway since 2004, when they lost 28-0 to Central.
CLASS (AAA) SEMIFINALS:
Thomas Jefferson Jaguars 27 - Pine-Richland Rams 14
Thomas Jefferson held Pine-Richland to just 28 yards rushing and Orlando Torres ran for 207 yards and three touchdowns as the Jaguars beat the Rams, 27-14. T-J marched 80 yards on 14 plays late in the first quarter, capped off by Nate Bota's 18-yard scoring scamper to make it 7-0. After forcing the third straight P-R punt, Torres took a jet-sweep handoff and raced untouched 90 yards to paydirt, upping the lead to 13-0. The Rams had 28 yards total offense in the first half and just three first downs.
On the Jaguars second possession after intermission, Torres finished off the 70-yard, 12-play effort with his second TD of the night, a 17 yard run. Two plays later, Rams quarterback Vinny Nittoli fumbled and T-J was set up at the P-R five yard line. Torres to the house again, and it was 27-0. Nittoli then completed eight of his last 10 passes for 144 yards and two touchdowns, but it was far too little, far too late. Ian Hennessy, who rushed for more than 300 yards against Chartiers Valley in the quarterfinals, was held to 34 yards on 10 carries. He did catch two passes, including a 9-yard toss that completed the scoring. Brett Matson had the first Pine-Richland score, a 24-yard catch and run early in the fourth quarter.
Montour Spartans 32 - Knoch Knights 6
Each team came into this Semifinals game with a big time running back. The difference turned out to be the health of one compared to the season ending injury of the other. Montour's Christian Wilson rushed for 238 yards and scored three touchdowns as the Sparans upended the Knights 32-6 at Martorelli Stadium in the North Hills. Knoch leading rusher Tim McNearney missed the game after suffering a season-ending leg injury last week in a win over Highlands in the Quarterfinals. Without their top back, the Knights ended up with only 76 yards rushing. Undefeated Montour moves on to the Class AAA finals against defending champion Thomas Jefferson. The Spartans are in search of their first WPIAL football title since 1964. The Knights season ends at 9-3.
CLASS (AA) SEMIFINALS:
Jeannette Jayhawks 70 - Aliquippa Quips 48
One of the wildest games in the W.P.I.A.L. maybe ever Jeannette outlasted Aliquippa 70-48 to move on to the championship game next week at Heinz Field. Both teams combined for over 1,000 yards of offense. Aliquippa struck first converting a Jeannette turnover on a 49 yard TD pass to Jamar Anderson and Daron Cox scored the 2 point conversion and the Quips were ahead 8-0. That was the last time the Quips would lead. Jeannette scored the next "3" touchdowns one by Jordan Hall and two by Terrelle Pryor to take a 22-8 lead. Both teams combined for eight touchdowns over the next eight minutes and the score was a remarkable 49-40 Jeannette and there was still eight minutes left in the 3rd quarter. Those touchdowns were highlighted by a remarkable catch by Jonathan Baldwin to end the half, the 1st play in the 2nd half was a "67" yard touchdown run by Terrelle Pryor. a "67" yard touchdown reception by Jonathan Baldwin a "31" yard fumble return by the Quips to cut the lead to three, then a "54" yard run by Pryor. Jeannette finally put the game away with 6:24 left with a "44" yard run by Kenny Grant. Now some unofficial stats: Terrelle Pryor "21" carries 335 yards and "5" Td's and throw in 2 Td passes and 82 yards passing. Jordan Hall 18 carries 190 yards and 3 Td's. For the Quips Rasheem Jones 12-21 for 279 yards and 4 Td's and 1 rushing TD. Daron Cox 18 carries 96 yards. Jonathan Baldwin 6 catches 178 yards and 3 Td's
(Note): Terrelle Pryor - of Jeannette..........
Jeannette's Terrelle Pryor proved why he is the top recruit in the nation and why when all is said and done, he may be the best high school football player to EVER come out of the WPIAL. In a memorable offensive shootout at Highlands High School, Pryor was 4 of 6 passing for 90 yards and tow touchdowns PLUS he rushed for 331 yards and five more scores as the Jayhawks outlasted the Aliquippa Quips 70-48 in the highest scoring playoff game in WPIAL history.
Beaver Falls Tigers 21 - Riverside Panthers 14
It was a victory parade up Routes 65 and 18 North, complete with fire trucks and police cars to welcome home the Beaver Falls Tigers, who used a hard-hitting defense in the second half to defeat the Riverside Panthers 21-14 at Moe Rubenstein Stadium in Ambridge Friday night. The Tigers allowed just 55 yards in the final two quarters and took advantage of two Panthers turnovers to move to the WPIAL Championship Game at Heinz Field. Beaver Falls opened the scoring with a 7 yard touchdown pass from Tony Carter to Kenny Cottman, set up by an interception and return by Dak Mobley to give the Tigers a first and goal.
Riverside came right back with a 9 play 68 yard drive, capped by a Jake Wickline 3 yard run to knot the game at 7, early in the second quarter. Following an exchange of punts, quarterback Codi Jackson ran for a 56 yard touchdown to give Riverside a 14-7 lead, with 4:24 left in the first half. Jackson would intercept a Todd Thomas halfback pass with 2:52 to play to give the Panthers the ball at their own 42. Riverside was able to drive to the Beaver Falls 36 with no timeouts and 12 seconds remaining, Jackson’s pass was interception by Mobley for his second pick of the night. Mobley was able to return the ball from the BF 14 all the way to the Riverside 35, as he was being tackled, he made the play of the night, pitching the ball to Thomas, who was able to go the rest of the way to knot the game at 14 at the half. Beaver Falls started the second half with great field posistion, but turned the ball over on downs. After a Riverside punt, the Tigers were able to go 53 yards in just 3 plays, including a Thomas 44 yard run and a Cody Cook 3 yard touchdown plunge to take the lead for good. Riverside was able to drive down to the Beaver Falls 7 but Wickline was stopped for no gain on 2nd down, Jackson was thrown for a 2 yard loss on 3rd down, then Cottman sacked Jackson for a 13 yard loss to turn the ball over on downs. The Tigers were able to run some clock with a 10 play drive ending with a punt to the Panthers 32, and got a huge defensive play from Kendall Dreher, who followed up an earlier interception, by seperating tight end Mike Vucelich from the bal on a 4th and 7 play to give Beaver Falls the ball back with 2:55 remaining. Riverside would get the ball back with 1:05 remaining and needing 87 yards for the tying touchdown. Jackson was able to complete his only pass of the night to Drew Ottavaini for 34 yard to put the ball near midfield, but the Panthers could advance no further in the final 30 seconds as Jackson was tackled twice for losses to end the game. Thomas led all rushers with 20 carries for 113 yards, he also made two acrobatic first half catches for 56 yards. Jackson was Riverside’s leading rusher with 95 yards on 18 carries, Wickline ended with 74 yards on 19 carries. Beaver Falls(11-1) will meet undefeated Jeannette in the WPIAL Class AA title game at 1:30 Friday at Heinz Field, as the Tigers will try and win their first title since 1984, when they knocked off Riverside in the championship game. Riverside saw it’s season come to an end at 10-2.
(Note): Todd Thomas - of Beaver Falls.......
A wild play as the first half came to an end may have been the difference in a hard fought victory for Beaver Falls over Riverside. BF running back Todd Thomas rushed for 124 yards and scored his only touchdown on a wild 84-yard interception return on the final play of the half when teammate Dak Mobley got the pick at the Beaver Falls 16 yard line and returned it to the Riverside 35 yard line before pitching it back to Thomas who took it the rest of the way to the end zone to help the Tigers past the Panthers 21-14.
CLASS (A) SEMIFINALS:
Serra Catholc Eagles 28 - Monessen Greyhounds 0
The Serra Catholic Eagles defeated the Monessen Greyhounds 28-0 Friday night to advance to the W.P.I.A.L. Championship game for the 1st time since "1981". The Eagles got a battle from the 'Hounds in the first 24 minutes of this contest with SR Chris Loving's 10 yard touchdown run being the only scoring in the first half. Loving made sure it was 7-0 at the half with a big interception of an Adam Caputo pass at the goal line late in the first half, to thwart a Greyhound drive. Serra got a 20 TD run from JR QB T.J. Heatherington to extend their lead to 14-0 with 6:02 to play in the third quarter. Then SR RB Isiah Jackson capped a three play 25 yard touchdown drive with a 26 yard touchdown run with 1:01 remaining in the third to make it 21-0 Eagles. Heatherington capped the scoring with a 49 yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter. The Eagles defense continued a very impressive run with their 4th straight shutout, during the 4 game span Serra has outscored their opponents 180-0. The Eagles are led by head coach Rich Bowen, who was the quarterback (Parade All-American '81) for that "1981" W.P.I.A.L. Championship winning Serra team.
(Note): Isaiah Jackson - of Serra Catholic........
The three-headed offensive monster of T.J. Heatherington, Chris Loving and Isaiah Jackson were once again at full force in a Semifinals win for Serra Catholic. Jackson led the way with 169 yards and a touchdown as the high flying Eagles beat the Monessen Greyhounds 28-0 as Serra has outscored its three playoff opponents by a score of 128-0.
Springdale Dynamos 22 - Clairton Bears 21
The Springdale Dynamos avenge their only loss of the season defeating the number one team in the Class (A) bracket Clairton Bears 22-21. The Bears got the scoring started at the 4:40 mark of the second quarter when Quarterback Troy Webb rushed it in from 8 yards out. Webb would kick the extra point and give Clairton a 7-0 lead. Springdale would answer on the ensuing drive marching down field mostly on a 61 yard rushing touchdown on a quarterback keeper by Nathan Zurisko. Adam Hoole added the extra point and the first half would end 7-7. Springdale which won the coin toss deferred to the second half and scored on the first drive when Zurisko hit Adam Shepherd from 17 yards out for the TD. Hoole’s extra point gave Springdale their first lead of the night 14-7. On the ensuing drive the Bears would answer the Dynamo TD marching down field capped off by a 3 yard run by Webb. Clairton head coach Tom Nola didn’t hesitate and went for two. Deontae Howard would get the direct snap and give Clairton a 15-14 lead. The Bears would add to their lead after holding Springdale to a five play drive and score with 11:02 to go in regulation when Webb would score his final touchdown of the night from 6 yards out. Nola would again go for two with the same play lining up in a swinging gate formation and direct snap to Howard. This time Springdale was ready and prevented Howard from getting to the edge leaving Clairton with a 7 point lead. Springdale would then drive down field and with 1:20 to go a half back option pass by Brian Zoller was broken up in the end zone and tipped into the air and caught by Dynamo Tight End Aaron Figore. A penalty would move the ball to the one for the point after and Springdale Head Coach Chuck Wagner would go for the two point conversion. Zurisko as he had done seemingly all game on a keeper cracked the goal line giving Springdale a 22-21 lead. Clairton who had exhausted all of their timeouts on the long Springdale game winning drive wouldn’t have much time. Webb would convert one fourth down conversion and a 15 yard personal foul for a late hit against Springdale would help the Bears get into Dynamo territory by on 4th and 10 Webb’s pass attempt to Kevin Weatherspoon would fall short. Clairton’s Zaire Washington who came into the game with 25 touchdowns did not score and at one point in the second half had his right wrist taped up. University of Pittsburgh recruit Linebacker/Fullback Manny Williams did not play as an MRI this week showed an ACL Tear. Zurisko who mostly played halfback this season before being inserted as the full time QB didn’t disappoint rushing for one touchdown and passing for another while keeping the Clairton defense on their hills running the football. Both the Dynamos and Bears were making their fourth appearance in five years in the Class A semifinals. Clairton was the defending champ and had finished as the runner-up in 2005. Springdale won the title in 2003.
(Note): Nathan Zurisko - of Springdale...........
Nathan Zurisko has developed into Mr. Everything for the Springdale offense. Zurisko rushed for 172 yards as both a running back and a quarterback and scored on a touchdown run plus he threw a scoring pass, but his biggest play was a two yard run on a two point conversion late in the 4th quarter as the Dynamos came back to knock out the defending champion Clairton Bears 22-21.
Thanks to Paul Paterra, Bob Orkwis, Bob Gregg, Don Rebel, Lee Mohn, Mark Schaas, Sam Hall and Rob Matzie for their help in these recaps.
CLASS (AAAA) SEMIFINALS:
Pittsburgh Central Catholic Vikings 24 - McKeesport Tigers 13
The Vikings ended the Tigers season for the second consecutive year by defeating McKeesport 24-13 for the second straight year; this time the semi-final win put Central into the championship for the third time since 2003. Tino Sunseri and Andrew Taglianetti played big parts in the Vikings victory. Sunseri, who threw touchdown passes of 20-yards to Quentin Williams and 22-yards to Brian Friend, finished the contest 9-of-14 passing for 136-yards. Taglianetti, who ran 83-yards for a touchdown, finished the game with 150-yards rushing on 12-carries. The Vikings defense also contributed to the win by forcing five McKeesport fumbles. The Tigers, who had a major time-of-possession advantage in the game, also got a big game from Nico Price, who rushed for 106-yards on 31-carries, and quarterback JJ Eckles, who ran for 92-yards and two touchdowns. In addition to the turnovers, McKeesport also played without star running back Marvase Byrd, who was injured in the Tigers overtime win against Norwin. Matt Oczypok added a 30-yard field goal for Central, who improved to (12-0) with the win. McKeesport’s season ended at (10-2). The Vikings, the number one seed in the Quad-A Tournament, will face third seeded Gateway (11-1) on Friday in the championship game. Central Catholic last played for the WPIAL Title in 2004, when they defeated Gateway 28-0 on their way to a (16-0) season and their second PIAA State Championship.
Gateway Gators 28 - North Allegheny Tigers 27 ~ {in Overtime}....
Trailing by 14 points early in the fourth quarter, the Gateway Gators battled back to tie this contest at 21 with 1:00 remaining, and then held off the Tigers in overtime to advance to Heinz Field with a 28-27 win. North Allegheny struck first with a big play, a 74-yard TD pass from QB Mike Locke to WR Brian Austin with 3:25 left in the first quarter. Austin would leave the game after being injured on a kickoff late in the first quarter. The Gators would tie things up in the second quarter, with an impressive 8 play 98-yard drive that featured Cameron Saddler. Saddler carried the ball ever play on the drive, which included a 15-face mask against the Tigers. Saddler carried the ball on 17 consecutive plays in the first half. NA had the answer in Carl DeCiantis. DeCiantis capped the ensuing drive with a 4-yard touchdown run which gave North Allegheny a 14-7 lead at halftime. DeCiantis, who finished the game with 103-yards on 20 carries, had tallied a touchdown in every game this season for North Allegheny. The Tigers would capitalize on a fourth Gator turnover, when Alex Calder stole the ball from Leon Green at the Gateway 10-yard line. Two plays later, Locke would find Geoff Greco with a 10-yard scoring strike, and 5-yards into the fourth quarter, the Tigers lead 21-7. That’s when the comeback began. Halfway through the quarter, Green capped of a 59-yard drive with a 6-yard run, after the Tigers chose to go for it on fourth down instead of punting. After a Greco punt resulted in a touchback, the Gators started at their own 20-yard line with 6:20 left on the clock. Gateway was faced with a 4th & 9 with 2:20 remaining, when a pass interference call against NA gave the Gators a first down at the Tiger 49-yard line. On third and 11, sophomore quarterback Rob Kalkstein ran for a crucial first down. Kalkstein then hit Jonathon Pryor with a 27 pass to the Tiger 12-yard line. Saddler, who left the drive early with leg cramps, returned and ran for 4-yards and capped off the drive with an 8-yard run with a minute left. Ryan Lichtenstein nailed the extra point and the game was tied at 21-21. NA would drive near mid-field before time ran out in regulation. Gateway had the first opportunity in overtime and scored first. Saddler carried three times and despite an illegal motion penalty against Gateway, found the end zone for the third time from three yard. Lichtenstein’s point after made the score 28-21. North Allegheny wasted little time in answering, when Locke found Greco from 10-yards in almost an exact replay of their earlier touchdown. While the Tigers were lined up to kick the extra point, Gateway was penalized for an illegal substitution, which moved the ball a yard-and-a half away from the goal line. NA head coach Art Walker called time out and the Tigers decided to go for the win. Greco lined up at quarterback, took the direct snapped and jumped towards the pile at the line of scrimmage. His second effort was also thwarted by the Gators defense, and Gateway came away with a one-point victory. The loss was the first in twelve games for the second seeded Tigers. Gateway, the third seed in the WPIAL Quad-A tournament, improved to (11-1). Saddler, who finished the game with 34 carries for 240-yards, now has 28 touchdowns on the season. The Gators will face top-seeded Pittsburgh Central Catholic on Friday in the AAAA title game. The Vikings defeated McKeesport 24-13 to improve to (12-0). The trip to Heinz Field marks the first championship appearance for Gateway since 2004, when they lost 28-0 to Central.
CLASS (AAA) SEMIFINALS:
Thomas Jefferson Jaguars 27 - Pine-Richland Rams 14
Thomas Jefferson held Pine-Richland to just 28 yards rushing and Orlando Torres ran for 207 yards and three touchdowns as the Jaguars beat the Rams, 27-14. T-J marched 80 yards on 14 plays late in the first quarter, capped off by Nate Bota's 18-yard scoring scamper to make it 7-0. After forcing the third straight P-R punt, Torres took a jet-sweep handoff and raced untouched 90 yards to paydirt, upping the lead to 13-0. The Rams had 28 yards total offense in the first half and just three first downs.
On the Jaguars second possession after intermission, Torres finished off the 70-yard, 12-play effort with his second TD of the night, a 17 yard run. Two plays later, Rams quarterback Vinny Nittoli fumbled and T-J was set up at the P-R five yard line. Torres to the house again, and it was 27-0. Nittoli then completed eight of his last 10 passes for 144 yards and two touchdowns, but it was far too little, far too late. Ian Hennessy, who rushed for more than 300 yards against Chartiers Valley in the quarterfinals, was held to 34 yards on 10 carries. He did catch two passes, including a 9-yard toss that completed the scoring. Brett Matson had the first Pine-Richland score, a 24-yard catch and run early in the fourth quarter.
Montour Spartans 32 - Knoch Knights 6
Each team came into this Semifinals game with a big time running back. The difference turned out to be the health of one compared to the season ending injury of the other. Montour's Christian Wilson rushed for 238 yards and scored three touchdowns as the Sparans upended the Knights 32-6 at Martorelli Stadium in the North Hills. Knoch leading rusher Tim McNearney missed the game after suffering a season-ending leg injury last week in a win over Highlands in the Quarterfinals. Without their top back, the Knights ended up with only 76 yards rushing. Undefeated Montour moves on to the Class AAA finals against defending champion Thomas Jefferson. The Spartans are in search of their first WPIAL football title since 1964. The Knights season ends at 9-3.
CLASS (AA) SEMIFINALS:
Jeannette Jayhawks 70 - Aliquippa Quips 48
One of the wildest games in the W.P.I.A.L. maybe ever Jeannette outlasted Aliquippa 70-48 to move on to the championship game next week at Heinz Field. Both teams combined for over 1,000 yards of offense. Aliquippa struck first converting a Jeannette turnover on a 49 yard TD pass to Jamar Anderson and Daron Cox scored the 2 point conversion and the Quips were ahead 8-0. That was the last time the Quips would lead. Jeannette scored the next "3" touchdowns one by Jordan Hall and two by Terrelle Pryor to take a 22-8 lead. Both teams combined for eight touchdowns over the next eight minutes and the score was a remarkable 49-40 Jeannette and there was still eight minutes left in the 3rd quarter. Those touchdowns were highlighted by a remarkable catch by Jonathan Baldwin to end the half, the 1st play in the 2nd half was a "67" yard touchdown run by Terrelle Pryor. a "67" yard touchdown reception by Jonathan Baldwin a "31" yard fumble return by the Quips to cut the lead to three, then a "54" yard run by Pryor. Jeannette finally put the game away with 6:24 left with a "44" yard run by Kenny Grant. Now some unofficial stats: Terrelle Pryor "21" carries 335 yards and "5" Td's and throw in 2 Td passes and 82 yards passing. Jordan Hall 18 carries 190 yards and 3 Td's. For the Quips Rasheem Jones 12-21 for 279 yards and 4 Td's and 1 rushing TD. Daron Cox 18 carries 96 yards. Jonathan Baldwin 6 catches 178 yards and 3 Td's
(Note): Terrelle Pryor - of Jeannette..........
Jeannette's Terrelle Pryor proved why he is the top recruit in the nation and why when all is said and done, he may be the best high school football player to EVER come out of the WPIAL. In a memorable offensive shootout at Highlands High School, Pryor was 4 of 6 passing for 90 yards and tow touchdowns PLUS he rushed for 331 yards and five more scores as the Jayhawks outlasted the Aliquippa Quips 70-48 in the highest scoring playoff game in WPIAL history.
Beaver Falls Tigers 21 - Riverside Panthers 14
It was a victory parade up Routes 65 and 18 North, complete with fire trucks and police cars to welcome home the Beaver Falls Tigers, who used a hard-hitting defense in the second half to defeat the Riverside Panthers 21-14 at Moe Rubenstein Stadium in Ambridge Friday night. The Tigers allowed just 55 yards in the final two quarters and took advantage of two Panthers turnovers to move to the WPIAL Championship Game at Heinz Field. Beaver Falls opened the scoring with a 7 yard touchdown pass from Tony Carter to Kenny Cottman, set up by an interception and return by Dak Mobley to give the Tigers a first and goal.
Riverside came right back with a 9 play 68 yard drive, capped by a Jake Wickline 3 yard run to knot the game at 7, early in the second quarter. Following an exchange of punts, quarterback Codi Jackson ran for a 56 yard touchdown to give Riverside a 14-7 lead, with 4:24 left in the first half. Jackson would intercept a Todd Thomas halfback pass with 2:52 to play to give the Panthers the ball at their own 42. Riverside was able to drive to the Beaver Falls 36 with no timeouts and 12 seconds remaining, Jackson’s pass was interception by Mobley for his second pick of the night. Mobley was able to return the ball from the BF 14 all the way to the Riverside 35, as he was being tackled, he made the play of the night, pitching the ball to Thomas, who was able to go the rest of the way to knot the game at 14 at the half. Beaver Falls started the second half with great field posistion, but turned the ball over on downs. After a Riverside punt, the Tigers were able to go 53 yards in just 3 plays, including a Thomas 44 yard run and a Cody Cook 3 yard touchdown plunge to take the lead for good. Riverside was able to drive down to the Beaver Falls 7 but Wickline was stopped for no gain on 2nd down, Jackson was thrown for a 2 yard loss on 3rd down, then Cottman sacked Jackson for a 13 yard loss to turn the ball over on downs. The Tigers were able to run some clock with a 10 play drive ending with a punt to the Panthers 32, and got a huge defensive play from Kendall Dreher, who followed up an earlier interception, by seperating tight end Mike Vucelich from the bal on a 4th and 7 play to give Beaver Falls the ball back with 2:55 remaining. Riverside would get the ball back with 1:05 remaining and needing 87 yards for the tying touchdown. Jackson was able to complete his only pass of the night to Drew Ottavaini for 34 yard to put the ball near midfield, but the Panthers could advance no further in the final 30 seconds as Jackson was tackled twice for losses to end the game. Thomas led all rushers with 20 carries for 113 yards, he also made two acrobatic first half catches for 56 yards. Jackson was Riverside’s leading rusher with 95 yards on 18 carries, Wickline ended with 74 yards on 19 carries. Beaver Falls(11-1) will meet undefeated Jeannette in the WPIAL Class AA title game at 1:30 Friday at Heinz Field, as the Tigers will try and win their first title since 1984, when they knocked off Riverside in the championship game. Riverside saw it’s season come to an end at 10-2.
(Note): Todd Thomas - of Beaver Falls.......
A wild play as the first half came to an end may have been the difference in a hard fought victory for Beaver Falls over Riverside. BF running back Todd Thomas rushed for 124 yards and scored his only touchdown on a wild 84-yard interception return on the final play of the half when teammate Dak Mobley got the pick at the Beaver Falls 16 yard line and returned it to the Riverside 35 yard line before pitching it back to Thomas who took it the rest of the way to the end zone to help the Tigers past the Panthers 21-14.
CLASS (A) SEMIFINALS:
Serra Catholc Eagles 28 - Monessen Greyhounds 0
The Serra Catholic Eagles defeated the Monessen Greyhounds 28-0 Friday night to advance to the W.P.I.A.L. Championship game for the 1st time since "1981". The Eagles got a battle from the 'Hounds in the first 24 minutes of this contest with SR Chris Loving's 10 yard touchdown run being the only scoring in the first half. Loving made sure it was 7-0 at the half with a big interception of an Adam Caputo pass at the goal line late in the first half, to thwart a Greyhound drive. Serra got a 20 TD run from JR QB T.J. Heatherington to extend their lead to 14-0 with 6:02 to play in the third quarter. Then SR RB Isiah Jackson capped a three play 25 yard touchdown drive with a 26 yard touchdown run with 1:01 remaining in the third to make it 21-0 Eagles. Heatherington capped the scoring with a 49 yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter. The Eagles defense continued a very impressive run with their 4th straight shutout, during the 4 game span Serra has outscored their opponents 180-0. The Eagles are led by head coach Rich Bowen, who was the quarterback (Parade All-American '81) for that "1981" W.P.I.A.L. Championship winning Serra team.
(Note): Isaiah Jackson - of Serra Catholic........
The three-headed offensive monster of T.J. Heatherington, Chris Loving and Isaiah Jackson were once again at full force in a Semifinals win for Serra Catholic. Jackson led the way with 169 yards and a touchdown as the high flying Eagles beat the Monessen Greyhounds 28-0 as Serra has outscored its three playoff opponents by a score of 128-0.
Springdale Dynamos 22 - Clairton Bears 21
The Springdale Dynamos avenge their only loss of the season defeating the number one team in the Class (A) bracket Clairton Bears 22-21. The Bears got the scoring started at the 4:40 mark of the second quarter when Quarterback Troy Webb rushed it in from 8 yards out. Webb would kick the extra point and give Clairton a 7-0 lead. Springdale would answer on the ensuing drive marching down field mostly on a 61 yard rushing touchdown on a quarterback keeper by Nathan Zurisko. Adam Hoole added the extra point and the first half would end 7-7. Springdale which won the coin toss deferred to the second half and scored on the first drive when Zurisko hit Adam Shepherd from 17 yards out for the TD. Hoole’s extra point gave Springdale their first lead of the night 14-7. On the ensuing drive the Bears would answer the Dynamo TD marching down field capped off by a 3 yard run by Webb. Clairton head coach Tom Nola didn’t hesitate and went for two. Deontae Howard would get the direct snap and give Clairton a 15-14 lead. The Bears would add to their lead after holding Springdale to a five play drive and score with 11:02 to go in regulation when Webb would score his final touchdown of the night from 6 yards out. Nola would again go for two with the same play lining up in a swinging gate formation and direct snap to Howard. This time Springdale was ready and prevented Howard from getting to the edge leaving Clairton with a 7 point lead. Springdale would then drive down field and with 1:20 to go a half back option pass by Brian Zoller was broken up in the end zone and tipped into the air and caught by Dynamo Tight End Aaron Figore. A penalty would move the ball to the one for the point after and Springdale Head Coach Chuck Wagner would go for the two point conversion. Zurisko as he had done seemingly all game on a keeper cracked the goal line giving Springdale a 22-21 lead. Clairton who had exhausted all of their timeouts on the long Springdale game winning drive wouldn’t have much time. Webb would convert one fourth down conversion and a 15 yard personal foul for a late hit against Springdale would help the Bears get into Dynamo territory by on 4th and 10 Webb’s pass attempt to Kevin Weatherspoon would fall short. Clairton’s Zaire Washington who came into the game with 25 touchdowns did not score and at one point in the second half had his right wrist taped up. University of Pittsburgh recruit Linebacker/Fullback Manny Williams did not play as an MRI this week showed an ACL Tear. Zurisko who mostly played halfback this season before being inserted as the full time QB didn’t disappoint rushing for one touchdown and passing for another while keeping the Clairton defense on their hills running the football. Both the Dynamos and Bears were making their fourth appearance in five years in the Class A semifinals. Clairton was the defending champ and had finished as the runner-up in 2005. Springdale won the title in 2003.
(Note): Nathan Zurisko - of Springdale...........
Nathan Zurisko has developed into Mr. Everything for the Springdale offense. Zurisko rushed for 172 yards as both a running back and a quarterback and scored on a touchdown run plus he threw a scoring pass, but his biggest play was a two yard run on a two point conversion late in the 4th quarter as the Dynamos came back to knock out the defending champion Clairton Bears 22-21.
-
Dfense wins games
- Official BleacherCoach
- Posts: 1401
- Joined: November 3rd, 2005, 10:17 pm
Re: W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
To comment on the AA Jeanette vs Quippa game...obviously there wasnt a whole lot of 'D' being played and considering both mccort and CC play pretty darn good defense....I think that could keep them in a game such as this, what do ya think? I recall a matchup in '04 that featured Greensburgh CC vs Quippa(i believe) with a high scoring affiar while both teams looked they could beat some D2-3 teams! anyway...Tyrone went on to win 28-0! Many people from Pittsburgh think they are far superior than the rest of the state-including a few of my relatives!- Take a look at basketball...2 years in a row Quippa knocked out BM in the playoffs by about 25 pts total(nothing to be ashamed about)...Just saying that our area is very well represented and IF BM or CC were advance to play Jeanette, I cant see a blow out...
Re: W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
Dfense wins games,
The game you were speaking of was Seton LaSalle vs Aliquippa - final score Rebels 42, Quips 35. Tyrone then handed "Cheatin" LaSalle a 28-7 loss.
Just a couple of things to keep in mind regarding CC, McCort and Jeannette. First, the winner of the CC/McCort game will play the D10 champ the following week (this will be the winner of Wilmington vs Harbor Creek). Should CC or McCort get past the the D10 champ, they will then face the winner of Jeannette and Karns City in the Western Final. By the way, D6 will host the first round of inter-district play in AA, so the CC/McCort winner will likely be right back at the Mansion to play the D10 champ - this should present an advantage.
As far as either of our D6 teams keeping it close with the Jayhawks... no comment. I agree that D7 and all in that area believe they are superior in athletics to all other districts. Problem is, the numbers support that thinking. I do believe Jeannette is the best team in the state in AA and I do not say this simply because of Pryor, because they have so much more than that. I say this because they were in the title game last year and should have won it (lost 29-28 to Wilson). They have big game experience, period. Jeannette is 26-2 in their last 28 games. Their lowest output on offense this season was 40 points. They have scored 50+ three times this season, 60+ twice and 70+ three times! The best chance of any team defeating the Jayhawks will be this week when they play Beaver Falls. Aliquippa beat Beaver Falls and Jeannette scored 70 on the Quips... look for another 50+ on the Tigers and another Jeannette "W".
I realize you weren't stating a D6 team could beat Jeannette, simply keep it close. I don't know, but I sure hope we get to find out!
The game you were speaking of was Seton LaSalle vs Aliquippa - final score Rebels 42, Quips 35. Tyrone then handed "Cheatin" LaSalle a 28-7 loss.
Just a couple of things to keep in mind regarding CC, McCort and Jeannette. First, the winner of the CC/McCort game will play the D10 champ the following week (this will be the winner of Wilmington vs Harbor Creek). Should CC or McCort get past the the D10 champ, they will then face the winner of Jeannette and Karns City in the Western Final. By the way, D6 will host the first round of inter-district play in AA, so the CC/McCort winner will likely be right back at the Mansion to play the D10 champ - this should present an advantage.
As far as either of our D6 teams keeping it close with the Jayhawks... no comment. I agree that D7 and all in that area believe they are superior in athletics to all other districts. Problem is, the numbers support that thinking. I do believe Jeannette is the best team in the state in AA and I do not say this simply because of Pryor, because they have so much more than that. I say this because they were in the title game last year and should have won it (lost 29-28 to Wilson). They have big game experience, period. Jeannette is 26-2 in their last 28 games. Their lowest output on offense this season was 40 points. They have scored 50+ three times this season, 60+ twice and 70+ three times! The best chance of any team defeating the Jayhawks will be this week when they play Beaver Falls. Aliquippa beat Beaver Falls and Jeannette scored 70 on the Quips... look for another 50+ on the Tigers and another Jeannette "W".
I realize you weren't stating a D6 team could beat Jeannette, simply keep it close. I don't know, but I sure hope we get to find out!
-
TheNatural
- Sophomore
- Posts: 51
- Joined: November 8th, 2006, 2:20 pm
Re: W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
Great analysis. Jozey was right on when he stated that the D6 vs. D10 game would be an advantage for the D6 team because it will be in Altoona. Remember the home-cookin Wilmington got last year at SRU?
Re: W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
Officiating last yr. was literally a joke....but Wilmington wins over D6 rep by 14 or more this yr.!
So forget 'bout playing Jeannette & JoeZ...why they gotta be Cheatin'?
So forget 'bout playing Jeannette & JoeZ...why they gotta be Cheatin'?
I have to say thank you to me ..." for not being stupid enough to go to Penn State."
Re: W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
vman,
I disagree - I believe the winner of D6 can beat the Hounds if they play a complete game. Either CC or McCort are capable of meeting Jeannette this season.
As far as the "Cheatin" LaSalle comment, it's a common nickname given to the Rebels by fans in WPIAL land. I think it has something to do with them accepting transfers with no boundries...
Don't waste your time fighting with me about transfers and private schools. I don't complain about having to play the Bishop's, therefore I do not need educated about the current set-up.
I disagree - I believe the winner of D6 can beat the Hounds if they play a complete game. Either CC or McCort are capable of meeting Jeannette this season.
As far as the "Cheatin" LaSalle comment, it's a common nickname given to the Rebels by fans in WPIAL land. I think it has something to do with them accepting transfers with no boundries...
Don't waste your time fighting with me about transfers and private schools. I don't complain about having to play the Bishop's, therefore I do not need educated about the current set-up.
Re: W.P.I.A.L. Re-cap of the Semi-Finals !!!
Am I stereo-typed or what?? Not really up for 'fighting' 'bout private schools..... just wondering why you had to regergita..errr reiterate that supposedly common nickname. Besides this CC BM match up is intriguing! I have no doubts that CC is tough & hard nosed but i think McCort has more speed/skill & an incredible qb! But still has makings of a classic....PO found some coverage holes in BM's scheme & I think CC coaches may find them & hit Crushers w/ a couple big plays....only way they have a chance for victory! And re. Wilmington, they will be extremly tough for either representative but the Air Jordon factor is the only chance either squad would have vs them!Jozey22 wrote:vman,
I disagree - I believe the winner of D6 can beat the Hounds if they play a complete game. Either CC or McCort are capable of meeting Jeannette this season.
As far as the "Cheatin" LaSalle comment, it's a common nickname given to the Rebels by fans in WPIAL land. I think it has something to do with them accepting transfers with no boundries...
Don't waste your time fighting with me about transfers and private schools. I don't complain about having to play the Bishop's, therefore I do not need educated about the current set-up.
I have to say thank you to me ..." for not being stupid enough to go to Penn State."