(LHAC) Week 3 Preview
(LHAC) Week 3 Preview
Week 3 brings about the first look at sectional play, as all 12 teams in the LHAC look to open up with a victory in their half of the conference. While 5 teams still remain perfect through two weeks of play, only three can sit atop the conference after this weeks action. Two contests feature undefeated teams locking horns, while the Trojans of Johnstown look to continue their march against winless Westmont.
To the breakdowns...
Cambria Heights (0-2) @ Central (0-2)
With identical (0-2) records, the Highlanders and Scarlet Dragons have reason to smile this week. For the first time this season, each has a very serious chance to put one in the “win” column.
While both teams were somewhat successful offensively in Week 1, (CH – 28 points, Central – 35 points) neither was able to do much in Week 2. Heights was only able to muster one score, whereas the Dragons were shut-out completely. Both will certainly have the opportunity to get back into the double-digit scoring here, as the defenses have combined to allow 179 total points to the opposition in just two weeks. The Highlanders 106 points yielded ranks dead last out of 47 teams in District 6. The Dragons aren’t far behind, as their 73 points yielded has them sitting in the number 42 slot.
In predicting a winner in this game, I look no further than the offensive output achieved by Central against Somerset in Week 1. Although I believe Somerset may be a bit overhyped at this point, I still don’t believe Heights could score even close to 35 against the Eagles. However fictional this may be, (Heights & Somerset do not play in ’04) it’s enough support for me to lean in the direction of the Dragons.
If the Dragons are to be successful here, they absolutely must contain Highlanders QB Scott Lane. On the other hand, CH must do the exact same thing to Central if they hope to make a game of it for more than one half. I expect QB Colby Hazenstab to toss the ball all over the Heights secondary on the way to victory #1 for the Dragons.
The battle of winless teams will be more lopsided than some may expect…
Central 44, Cambria Heights 15
Westmont (0-2) @ Johnstown (2-0)
18 yards on 16 carries… this is the byline that will be haunting Westmont and Brad Kanuch all week heading into a slugfest with undefeated Johnstown on Friday night. Not only was Kanuch held to under 20 yards rushing one week ago, the Hilltoppers also watched a golden opportunity slip through their fingers for the second straight week. A last second field goal would be the difference this time, as the Hilltoppers now find themselves winless heading into Trojan Stadium to try and corral arguably the best running back in the area.
As for the Trojans, it wasn’t as pretty as they would have hoped, but a 30 point win and a shutout will go just fine next to that perfect (2-0) record. LaRod Stephens was able to rack up 180+ yards on the evening, as well as three scores in the Trojan victory. Johnstown currently ranks #1 in District 6 in points scored with 91, while also sitting atop the AAA standings (currently tied with Somerset).
As many here at LHSPORTS predicted, the Bedford – Westmont game was very close throughout. It’s still very interesting to me that Kanuch was stuffed in this game and the Hilltoppers were able to keep pace. To me, this says quite a bit about Westmont. As noted earlier in the season, this Westmont team is going to cause all kinds of headaches for even the best of teams in the LHAC. They have successfully pushed CC and Bedford to the limit early in the season, and I have no doubts they will continue their ways for the next 7 weeks and possibly beyond.
I look for Kanuch to rebound in a big way here, as he will get back to the century mark in this game, along with 2 scores. The Hilltoppers will challenge the J-Town line here and I believe this game will be fairly close throughout. I do expect Johnstown to win because of the speed of Stephens. However, this will not be another blowout win for the Trojans. Look for this early season test to aid the Trojans in their chase for the LHAC Title.
Johnstown 30, Westmont 14
Richland (0-2) @ Bishop Carroll (1-1)
Although it took 2 weeks to achieve, the Bishop Carroll Huskies are back in form, as they lit up the scoreboard for 45 points in their Week 2 drubbing of Cambria Heights. Although the competition was quite different from one week to the next, the Huskies did what was expected, leaving no doubt in A that they’re back and ready to make a run.
As sectional play begins, the Huskies now find themselves traveling to Penn Cambria’s F.K. Shields Stadium for a “home” game against the winless Rams of Richland. In years past, this was little more than a speedbump in the road for the Huskies. However, this year the outcome may not be as crystal clear as in the past. Certainly, BC is favored to win this game, by records if nothing else. However, I truly believe Richland will cause some problems for the Huskies in this match-up. Although winless in two tries, the Rams will be a formidable opponent for the Huskies here, as they display strength and speed at the most important of positions.
The Huskies’ line will absolutely have to step it up, as they did from Week 1 to Week 2. Richland is much better than Heights (in my opinion) and this will show in this contest. BC’s Paul Forcellini will need to be freed up if Bishop Carroll hopes to slam the door in this one early. I really don’t see the Huskies running away in this game, but I do see Forcellini being the difference when the game is on the line.
Richland is slowly gaining confidence, and a win here would be huge for the young Rams this early in the season. With quite possibly the most brutal first 5 games on the schedule, look for Richland to get better with each week. While it may not produce many wins, the Rams program is headed in the right direction and they will absolutely end the season on a high note.
Richland will hang tough with the Huskies for a half, but I just don’t see them being able to counter Forcellini in any way. In the end, this will be the difference.
Bishop Carroll 32, Richland 14
Penn Cambria (0-2) @ Central Cambria (1-1)
For the second straight week, the Penn Cambria Panthers find themselves on the road and looking at an uphill battle. While PC was able to get back on track after getting embarrassed in Week 1, they find the trek gets no easier, as this week they invade CC’s Alumni Field. A bitter rivalry may be just what the Panthers need to turn their season around in a hurry.
The Red Devils found themselves in a nail biter one week ago, as they came up just short (26-20) against a very skilled Bishop McCort squad at Johnstown’s Trojan Stadium. The Devils were able to trade punches with the Crushers up until the final seconds, as McCort finally sealed the deal on an interception with less than 1 minute to play.
With both PC and CC having lost to the Crushers, I look to the results as a major indicator of how this game may unfold. Although PC barely showed up in their date with McCort, they did impress me last week against undefeated Somerset. The fact that PC was able to overcome the loss of their most experienced player and almost upset the Eagles shows me they aren’t yet ready to call it a season. However, CC very nearly upset the Crushers one week ago and this certainly cannot be ignored.
I absolutely feel PC will be up for this game because of the rivalry and also because CC is coming off a close loss. CC will either respond positively to last week’s setback or they will feel sorry for themselves and the Panthers will be able to take advantage. While I do believe PC is heading in the right direction, I don’t believe a win this week is in the cards for the Panthers.
CC’s Matt Mesaros looked very good throwing the ball in last weeks loss to McCort (7-17, 130+ yards, TD) however, I look for CC’s offense to turn back to the power running game. I also look for senior Wade Klezek to step to the forefront, as he was instrumental in CC’s hanging with McCort one week ago.
PC will not lie down for the Devils, as evidenced by last week’s game against a heavily favored Somerset squad. While this may be the case, I don’t see the Panthers being able to shut down or even remotely contain the CC rushing attack. Ryan Krull will once again hit the century mark, thanks in large part to FB Ron Casado and the offensive line.
CC rebounds nicely here, as the Goal Post trophy remains in the CC trophy case for at least one more year.
Central Cambria 44, Penn Cambria 13
Bishop McCort (2-0) @ Somerset (2-0)
With both teams entering this contest with perfect (2-0) records, you might expect this to be the game of the week. While I hate to disappoint, I must warn you – this will not be a favorable post for the Somerset faithful and this game, although featuring two of current top teams in the LHAC, will be HIGHLY lopsided.
In analyzing Somerset’s Week 2 victory over the Panthers of PC, I found myself asking many questions. The first of which being, why was this game so close. The speed and power of Somerset’s Josh Simmons was supposed to step to the forefront and be a major factor in this contest. Although Simmons was able to rack up 120+ yards on 15 carries, I absolutely felt that he would be able to run wild on a depleted PC squad. As mentioned earlier, PC stepped it up a notch, but I also feel Somerset was overrated a bit. I believe this will be even more evident after this weeks’ hosting of Bishop McCort.
Speaking of McCort, how good is Crushers’ QB Mike Sheridan? In this writers’ opinion – the best in the LHAC right now. While I agree Shawn Lewis is a very valuable part of the Crushers’ machine, I absolutely feel Sheridan is the most valuable player on the McCort roster – a roster full of talent.
From Sheridan to Lewis to Varga to Cruz to Domonkos, this Crusher squad is the real deal in ’04. The one major question mark in my mind entering this season for McCort was the offensive line. To my dismay (as a CC fan), the line did a fine job on Saturday evening and I believe they will only get better with time.
As for Somerset, the best part of this game is that it’s taking place in Somerset. I believe the Eagles have earned some well-deserved respect with the (2-0) start, but I also believe they will be brought back down to earth here in Week 3 with a humiliating loss at the hands of the Crushers. Look for Simmons to be contained in the Eagles first true test of ’04 and look for Sheridan and Co. to continue their march in hopes of attaining that elusive LHAC crown.
Records end up meaning little here, as McCort slams Somerset on the Eagles’ home turf.
Bishop McCort 38, Somerset 8
GAME OF THE WEEK
Forest Hills (2-0) @ Bedford (2-0)
Ahh, here we have the true game of the week. With years of memorable games in the archives, this is sure to be yet another in this classic battle… or is it??
The Bedford Bisons have long had the offensive fireworks any coach would be thankful to see, but the question marks always arise within the offensive line. How to free up the tremendous athletes?? On the other hand, the Forest Hills Rangers always seem to have the horses on the line that could free up even the weakest of running backs.
In my opinion, the Rangers are the better of the two teams entering Week 3, but this does not always tell the tale. The Bisons sport three of the quickest weapons in the LHAC in Troy Harris, Derrick Harris and John Marshall. However, nagging injuries have plagued the speedsters in the early goings of the ’04 season. The Bisons have been able to rely on Kyler Ford and Shane Fox thus far and you can count on these individuals being key factors in the outcome of this contest, just as they have been in the previous two weeks.
The Rangers have had little problem in displaying the firepower through the air, as both James Mehall and Travis Rearick have lit up opposing defenses in the past two weeks. I believe the Rangers were looking toward the future in inserting Rearick into the lineup one week ago and, whether Mehall is hurt or not, I expect Rearick to remain at Quarterback for the remainder of the season.
To the point…
I do not believe the Rangers will be able to throw quite as easily on the Bisons as they were able to in the previous two games. I do believe the Ranger line will create all kinds of time for Rearick to hit his targets, but I feel Bedford may have the best perimeter in the LHAC at this point. If Rearick is able to shred the Bisons secondary, then he will have his way with any team in the conference. The speed of Bedford’s big guns will create match up problems for the Rangers and will yield some points here. As mentioned earlier, FH was able to control BC and Forcellini, but the Bisons have three individuals that can cause havoc for the defense. If these three are healthy, I expect a very intense and close game throughout.
I believe Forest Hills will control the line of scrimmage and physically manhandle the front seven of the Bisons, but again, if they cannot contain the Harris’ and Marshall, it may be all for not.
I feel that Rearick will be able to spread the ball around, thanks to his outstanding line and in the end this will counter the athleticism of the Bisons.
Bedford will keep it close throughout, but the Rangers front line will dominate once again and keep the Bisons out of the endzone just enough to chalk up another “W”.
Forest Hills 21, Bedford 14
To the breakdowns...
Cambria Heights (0-2) @ Central (0-2)
With identical (0-2) records, the Highlanders and Scarlet Dragons have reason to smile this week. For the first time this season, each has a very serious chance to put one in the “win” column.
While both teams were somewhat successful offensively in Week 1, (CH – 28 points, Central – 35 points) neither was able to do much in Week 2. Heights was only able to muster one score, whereas the Dragons were shut-out completely. Both will certainly have the opportunity to get back into the double-digit scoring here, as the defenses have combined to allow 179 total points to the opposition in just two weeks. The Highlanders 106 points yielded ranks dead last out of 47 teams in District 6. The Dragons aren’t far behind, as their 73 points yielded has them sitting in the number 42 slot.
In predicting a winner in this game, I look no further than the offensive output achieved by Central against Somerset in Week 1. Although I believe Somerset may be a bit overhyped at this point, I still don’t believe Heights could score even close to 35 against the Eagles. However fictional this may be, (Heights & Somerset do not play in ’04) it’s enough support for me to lean in the direction of the Dragons.
If the Dragons are to be successful here, they absolutely must contain Highlanders QB Scott Lane. On the other hand, CH must do the exact same thing to Central if they hope to make a game of it for more than one half. I expect QB Colby Hazenstab to toss the ball all over the Heights secondary on the way to victory #1 for the Dragons.
The battle of winless teams will be more lopsided than some may expect…
Central 44, Cambria Heights 15
Westmont (0-2) @ Johnstown (2-0)
18 yards on 16 carries… this is the byline that will be haunting Westmont and Brad Kanuch all week heading into a slugfest with undefeated Johnstown on Friday night. Not only was Kanuch held to under 20 yards rushing one week ago, the Hilltoppers also watched a golden opportunity slip through their fingers for the second straight week. A last second field goal would be the difference this time, as the Hilltoppers now find themselves winless heading into Trojan Stadium to try and corral arguably the best running back in the area.
As for the Trojans, it wasn’t as pretty as they would have hoped, but a 30 point win and a shutout will go just fine next to that perfect (2-0) record. LaRod Stephens was able to rack up 180+ yards on the evening, as well as three scores in the Trojan victory. Johnstown currently ranks #1 in District 6 in points scored with 91, while also sitting atop the AAA standings (currently tied with Somerset).
As many here at LHSPORTS predicted, the Bedford – Westmont game was very close throughout. It’s still very interesting to me that Kanuch was stuffed in this game and the Hilltoppers were able to keep pace. To me, this says quite a bit about Westmont. As noted earlier in the season, this Westmont team is going to cause all kinds of headaches for even the best of teams in the LHAC. They have successfully pushed CC and Bedford to the limit early in the season, and I have no doubts they will continue their ways for the next 7 weeks and possibly beyond.
I look for Kanuch to rebound in a big way here, as he will get back to the century mark in this game, along with 2 scores. The Hilltoppers will challenge the J-Town line here and I believe this game will be fairly close throughout. I do expect Johnstown to win because of the speed of Stephens. However, this will not be another blowout win for the Trojans. Look for this early season test to aid the Trojans in their chase for the LHAC Title.
Johnstown 30, Westmont 14
Richland (0-2) @ Bishop Carroll (1-1)
Although it took 2 weeks to achieve, the Bishop Carroll Huskies are back in form, as they lit up the scoreboard for 45 points in their Week 2 drubbing of Cambria Heights. Although the competition was quite different from one week to the next, the Huskies did what was expected, leaving no doubt in A that they’re back and ready to make a run.
As sectional play begins, the Huskies now find themselves traveling to Penn Cambria’s F.K. Shields Stadium for a “home” game against the winless Rams of Richland. In years past, this was little more than a speedbump in the road for the Huskies. However, this year the outcome may not be as crystal clear as in the past. Certainly, BC is favored to win this game, by records if nothing else. However, I truly believe Richland will cause some problems for the Huskies in this match-up. Although winless in two tries, the Rams will be a formidable opponent for the Huskies here, as they display strength and speed at the most important of positions.
The Huskies’ line will absolutely have to step it up, as they did from Week 1 to Week 2. Richland is much better than Heights (in my opinion) and this will show in this contest. BC’s Paul Forcellini will need to be freed up if Bishop Carroll hopes to slam the door in this one early. I really don’t see the Huskies running away in this game, but I do see Forcellini being the difference when the game is on the line.
Richland is slowly gaining confidence, and a win here would be huge for the young Rams this early in the season. With quite possibly the most brutal first 5 games on the schedule, look for Richland to get better with each week. While it may not produce many wins, the Rams program is headed in the right direction and they will absolutely end the season on a high note.
Richland will hang tough with the Huskies for a half, but I just don’t see them being able to counter Forcellini in any way. In the end, this will be the difference.
Bishop Carroll 32, Richland 14
Penn Cambria (0-2) @ Central Cambria (1-1)
For the second straight week, the Penn Cambria Panthers find themselves on the road and looking at an uphill battle. While PC was able to get back on track after getting embarrassed in Week 1, they find the trek gets no easier, as this week they invade CC’s Alumni Field. A bitter rivalry may be just what the Panthers need to turn their season around in a hurry.
The Red Devils found themselves in a nail biter one week ago, as they came up just short (26-20) against a very skilled Bishop McCort squad at Johnstown’s Trojan Stadium. The Devils were able to trade punches with the Crushers up until the final seconds, as McCort finally sealed the deal on an interception with less than 1 minute to play.
With both PC and CC having lost to the Crushers, I look to the results as a major indicator of how this game may unfold. Although PC barely showed up in their date with McCort, they did impress me last week against undefeated Somerset. The fact that PC was able to overcome the loss of their most experienced player and almost upset the Eagles shows me they aren’t yet ready to call it a season. However, CC very nearly upset the Crushers one week ago and this certainly cannot be ignored.
I absolutely feel PC will be up for this game because of the rivalry and also because CC is coming off a close loss. CC will either respond positively to last week’s setback or they will feel sorry for themselves and the Panthers will be able to take advantage. While I do believe PC is heading in the right direction, I don’t believe a win this week is in the cards for the Panthers.
CC’s Matt Mesaros looked very good throwing the ball in last weeks loss to McCort (7-17, 130+ yards, TD) however, I look for CC’s offense to turn back to the power running game. I also look for senior Wade Klezek to step to the forefront, as he was instrumental in CC’s hanging with McCort one week ago.
PC will not lie down for the Devils, as evidenced by last week’s game against a heavily favored Somerset squad. While this may be the case, I don’t see the Panthers being able to shut down or even remotely contain the CC rushing attack. Ryan Krull will once again hit the century mark, thanks in large part to FB Ron Casado and the offensive line.
CC rebounds nicely here, as the Goal Post trophy remains in the CC trophy case for at least one more year.
Central Cambria 44, Penn Cambria 13
Bishop McCort (2-0) @ Somerset (2-0)
With both teams entering this contest with perfect (2-0) records, you might expect this to be the game of the week. While I hate to disappoint, I must warn you – this will not be a favorable post for the Somerset faithful and this game, although featuring two of current top teams in the LHAC, will be HIGHLY lopsided.
In analyzing Somerset’s Week 2 victory over the Panthers of PC, I found myself asking many questions. The first of which being, why was this game so close. The speed and power of Somerset’s Josh Simmons was supposed to step to the forefront and be a major factor in this contest. Although Simmons was able to rack up 120+ yards on 15 carries, I absolutely felt that he would be able to run wild on a depleted PC squad. As mentioned earlier, PC stepped it up a notch, but I also feel Somerset was overrated a bit. I believe this will be even more evident after this weeks’ hosting of Bishop McCort.
Speaking of McCort, how good is Crushers’ QB Mike Sheridan? In this writers’ opinion – the best in the LHAC right now. While I agree Shawn Lewis is a very valuable part of the Crushers’ machine, I absolutely feel Sheridan is the most valuable player on the McCort roster – a roster full of talent.
From Sheridan to Lewis to Varga to Cruz to Domonkos, this Crusher squad is the real deal in ’04. The one major question mark in my mind entering this season for McCort was the offensive line. To my dismay (as a CC fan), the line did a fine job on Saturday evening and I believe they will only get better with time.
As for Somerset, the best part of this game is that it’s taking place in Somerset. I believe the Eagles have earned some well-deserved respect with the (2-0) start, but I also believe they will be brought back down to earth here in Week 3 with a humiliating loss at the hands of the Crushers. Look for Simmons to be contained in the Eagles first true test of ’04 and look for Sheridan and Co. to continue their march in hopes of attaining that elusive LHAC crown.
Records end up meaning little here, as McCort slams Somerset on the Eagles’ home turf.
Bishop McCort 38, Somerset 8
GAME OF THE WEEK
Forest Hills (2-0) @ Bedford (2-0)
Ahh, here we have the true game of the week. With years of memorable games in the archives, this is sure to be yet another in this classic battle… or is it??
The Bedford Bisons have long had the offensive fireworks any coach would be thankful to see, but the question marks always arise within the offensive line. How to free up the tremendous athletes?? On the other hand, the Forest Hills Rangers always seem to have the horses on the line that could free up even the weakest of running backs.
In my opinion, the Rangers are the better of the two teams entering Week 3, but this does not always tell the tale. The Bisons sport three of the quickest weapons in the LHAC in Troy Harris, Derrick Harris and John Marshall. However, nagging injuries have plagued the speedsters in the early goings of the ’04 season. The Bisons have been able to rely on Kyler Ford and Shane Fox thus far and you can count on these individuals being key factors in the outcome of this contest, just as they have been in the previous two weeks.
The Rangers have had little problem in displaying the firepower through the air, as both James Mehall and Travis Rearick have lit up opposing defenses in the past two weeks. I believe the Rangers were looking toward the future in inserting Rearick into the lineup one week ago and, whether Mehall is hurt or not, I expect Rearick to remain at Quarterback for the remainder of the season.
To the point…
I do not believe the Rangers will be able to throw quite as easily on the Bisons as they were able to in the previous two games. I do believe the Ranger line will create all kinds of time for Rearick to hit his targets, but I feel Bedford may have the best perimeter in the LHAC at this point. If Rearick is able to shred the Bisons secondary, then he will have his way with any team in the conference. The speed of Bedford’s big guns will create match up problems for the Rangers and will yield some points here. As mentioned earlier, FH was able to control BC and Forcellini, but the Bisons have three individuals that can cause havoc for the defense. If these three are healthy, I expect a very intense and close game throughout.
I believe Forest Hills will control the line of scrimmage and physically manhandle the front seven of the Bisons, but again, if they cannot contain the Harris’ and Marshall, it may be all for not.
I feel that Rearick will be able to spread the ball around, thanks to his outstanding line and in the end this will counter the athleticism of the Bisons.
Bedford will keep it close throughout, but the Rangers front line will dominate once again and keep the Bisons out of the endzone just enough to chalk up another “W”.
Forest Hills 21, Bedford 14
Re: (LHAC) Week 3 Preview
bedford will have to play a good game. judging by conditions ball security will be the big issue. there will be turnovers in the rain. the key is going to be how your D comes onto the field and handles it. I am anticipating some sloppy play for both teams due to rain. turnovers will decide who wins this ball game
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HOLLYWOOD
- Official BleacherCoach
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- Joined: August 21st, 2003, 1:07 pm
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Re: (LHAC) Week 3 Preview
Another great outlook by Jozey. Keep up the great work!!
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southpaw
- Official BleacherCoach
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- Joined: September 5th, 2003, 12:33 pm
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Re: (LHAC) Week 3 Preview
Excellent post Jozey. So good that the tribune-democrat ought to hire you to write for them!
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