2024 Lancaster-Lebanon High School League Football Review

LANCASTER-LEBANON LEAGUE

USHERING IN A NEW SEASON WITH NEW FACES, NEW ALIGNMENTS SEASON OVERVIEW, PAGE 2

COCALICO’S VAUNTED FULLBACK LEGACY CONTINUES TO GROW FEATURE STORY, PAGE 4

PLUS CAPSULE LOOKS AT ALL 37 L-L LEAGUE TEAMS

A NEW-LOOK LEAGUE

Retooled sections are creating plenty of buzz in the L-L for the impending season

Commencing rocket launch sequence.

The 2024 Lancaster-Lebanon League football season is gassed up, pointing skyward in the tower, and is ready for liftoff.

It’s Year Three and Cycle Two for the 37-team format, as the Berks County clubs now know their way around the L-L’s back roads after navigating the initial two-year cycle — a wildly successful one that went off without a hitch, providing plenty of highlights and feel-good moments along the way. Like last year, when both the Section Three and Section Five races ended in a three-way tie for the crown. It was the first time in L-L history — dating back to 1972 — that two sections had three-way ties for the top spot in the same season.

What will this fall bring? For starters, some new-look section formats, after a round of PIAA classification realignment tweaks in the league’s front office. That means new schedules, new foes — or reigniting some old rivalries in some cases, which is always fun — in what promises to be some exciting races.

Will any of those races end in threeway knots again? We shall see. There are also five new coaches on board, three alone in Section Two. There’s some must-see returning talent, and a new wave of players ready for their L-L League close-ups.

All systems are go. Let the countdown begin. While you’re waiting for the clock to hit zeroes and for the opening weekend games to arrive, here’s a section-by-section overview of how the season is shaping up.

Section One

No changes here in the latest round of league realignment; it will be status quo in this section format. There is one new coach, though, as Nick Lambros has taken the reins at Cedar Crest.

We’re anxious to see if Manheim Township can somehow top last year’s stat-busting success, when the Blue Streaks ran the table in section play to capture the crown outright, and ended

L-L BREAKDOWN

SECTION ONE

n Cedar Crest, Hempfield, Manheim Township, McCaskey, Penn Manor, Reading, Wilson

SECTION TWO

n Conestoga Valley, Elizabethtown, Ephrata, Exeter, Governor Mifflin, Lebanon, Muhlenberg

SECTION THREE

n Cocalico, Conrad Weiser, Fleetwood, Garden Spot, Manheim Central, Solanco, Warwick

SECTION FOUR

n Daniel Boone, Donegal, Elco, Lampeter-Strasburg, Northern Lebanon, Octorara, Twin Valley, Wyomissing

SECTION FIVE

n Annville-Cleona, Berks Catholic, Columbia, Hamburg, Kutztown, Lancaster Catholic, Pequea Valley, Schuylkill Valley

up with 12 wins, crooked numbers galore, and their second straight trip to the District Three Class 6A championship game.

It will look a little different on offense — QB Hayden Johnson is at Lehigh and WR Landon Kennel is at Monmouth — but there are plenty of key holdover performers due back, like Declan Clancy, Tom Capizzi, Taylor Veilleux, Donovan Rodriguez and many more.

Gut hunch is that the road to the section title will once again go through Neffsville. Can Manheim Township

ON THE COVER

The next generation of Lancaster-Lebanon League football standouts are ready for their closeups in 2024, as a new alignment cycle settles into place. Marking the occasion at Manheim Central’s Elden Rettew Field on Aug. 12 were, from left, Twin Valley’s Evan Myers, Hamburg’s Tyler Shuey, Cocalico’s Josh Myer, Manheim Central’s Zion Rolon, Ephrata’s Brayden Brown, Exeter’s Jayden Zandier, Manheim Township’s Declan Clancy and, kneeling, Conestoga Valley’s Jayden Johnson.

make it three district championship appearances in a row? And can the Streaks get over the hump and finish the job this time around after back-toback title-game losses against mighty Harrisburg?

Hate to say district title or bust. But Manheim Township’s window is still open, and it has the goods to get back. Wilson, which has some holes to plug, should also contend. No section hardware since 2021 for the Bulldogs, who are salivating to get back in the spotlight. Wilson visits Manheim Township in Week 10. Circle that one. Thinking the upper tier of this race

should also include Hempfield, Cedar Crest and Penn Manor, in one pecking order or another. The Black Knights are very determined to flush last year’s 3-7 campaign; the Falcons won eight games and went to the playoffs last fall; and the Comets just missed out on a .500 season last year, and gave everyone Excedrin headaches.

Can McCaskey and Reading push? Of course. And here’s hoping they do, because the Section One race is always much more fun when the Red Tornado and the Red Knights are running with the lead pack.

JEFF REINHART L-L LEAGUE FOOTBALL

— Photo by Chris Knight, cover design by Chris Emlet

L-L LEAGUE FOOTBALL 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

n Season Overview: A look at the new season, with new faces and a new section alignment Page 2

n Feature Story: Cocalico’s long history as the ultimate fullback-friendly program has produced much success on the field and off Page 4

n Section One: Capsule previews of Cedar Crest, Hempfield, Manheim Township, McCaskey, Penn Manor, Reading and Wilson Pages 6-7

n 2024 Schedule: Team-by-team grid Pages 8-9

n Section Two: Capsule previews of Conestoga Valley, Elizabethtown, Ephrata, Exeter, Governor Mifflin, Lebanon and Muhlenberg Pages 10-11

n Section Three: Capsule previews of Cocalico, Conrad Weiser, Fleetwood, Garden Spot, Manheim Central, Solanco and Warwick Pages 14-15

n Section Four: Capsule previews of Daniel Boone, Donegal, Elco, Lampeter-Strasburg, Northern Lebanon, Octorara, Twin Valley and Wyomissing Pages 16-17

n Section Five: Capsule previews of Annville-Cleona, Berks Catholic, Columbia, Hamburg, Kutztown, Lancaster Catholic, Pequea Valley and Schuylkill Valley Pages 18-19

Overview: New looks for 2024 L-L season

Section Two

A couple of changes here, with Warwick and reigning champ Manheim Central sashaying to Section Three, and Elizabethtown and Ephrata — former longtime Section Two combatants — joining the mix.

Three new coaches here: Nick Morrissey at Governor Mifflin, Tyler Pritchett at Lebanon, and Rob Flowers at Muhlenberg, where he returns to skipper his alma mater.

The team to watch here is Exeter, which brings back a long list of playmakers and line protectors. The Eagles won section gold in 2022, and they were in first place again last fall — before back-to-back setbacks in the stretch drive. Then came a gutpunch first-round ouster in the district playoffs. Needless to say, Exeter is plenty motivated to not suffer those hiccups again.

Conestoga Valley, which beat Exeter and had a runner-up finish in the section, and then went on to

win a district playoff game last fall, returns an excellent nucleus — including must-see multi-purpose threat Jayden Johnson — and is thinking even bigger this time around.

Ephrata is coming off a joyride of a season that included a tri-crown in Section Three, 12 victories, and a trip to the District Three Class 5A championship game. The Mountaineers lost some thumpers from that squad, but return a lot of key pieces for their first Section Two tour of duty since 2017. Can’t wait to see what Ephrata does for an encore.

Ticketing Elizabethtown and Governor Mifflin for middle-of-the-pack status here. But the Bears are just one season removed from a playoff trip, and the Mustangs were in the Eastern Conference 5A final last fall, so those clubs should have the moxie to compete and make noise.

Muhlenberg and Lebanon both have first-year skippers, and the Muhls and the Cedars are both in reboot mode. Lebanon’s losing streak is at 32 games in a row, and the Cedars would love to see that skid go by the wayside.

OVERVIEW, page 12

SPECIAL SECTION EDITORS

Brian Smith and Laura Eckert Thompson

SPECIAL SECTION WRITERS

Jeff Reinhart and Jason Guarente PHOTOS

Andy Blackburn, Chris Knight and Vinny Tennis

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS

Full team previews of each L-L squad, plus Q&As and video from the teams’ 2024 media day player representatives, appear exclusively at LancasterOnline.com/Sports

PREVIEW WRITERS

David Bohr, Dave Byrne, Mike Gross, Jason Guarente, Andrew Koob, Brian Markley, Kyle Morgan, Logan Moyer, Jeff Reinhart, Brian Rippey, Joel Schreiner and Brandon Schwartzberg

Ephrata’s Brayden Brown poses at Manheim Central’s Elden Rettew Field on Aug. 12. Brown and the Mounts are joining the crowd in a new-look Section Two this season.

CHRIS KNIGHT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

PAIN AND GLORY

For

Cocalico’s fullbacks, tradition of toughness is worth every ache

JASON GUARENTE JGUARENTE@LNPNEWS.COM

Cocalico’s next great fullback is always waiting. It doesn’t matter what year or what players have graduated.

There’s something quaint and reliable about the tradition. Time is relentless. Time always wins. Yet it has little effect on football in Denver.

Cocalico has employed three head coaches since 1975. It has run some variation of the veer triple option for most of those years.

Fullbacks have been the centerpiece. They’ve come in many shapes and sizes and they’ve offered different skills. The coaching staff has a knack for finding them.

“Ultimately, the thing they share in common is they’re all tough,” head coach Bryan Strohl said. “They’re not kids that are gonna come out with a bruise on an arm. They’re gonna be right back in there for the next play. It’s something the rest of our team rallies around.”

Fullbacks at Cocalico require a blend of speed and strength. If they’re really fast, they end up at tailback. If they’re really strong or a touch slower, they end up in the trenches.

To run between the tackles and get the lion’s share of the carries is a coveted role. The boys coming up through the midget program watch the high school games on Friday nights. They imagine themselves replacing the players they admire.

Once someone is named the starter, he becomes part of history. Everyone who follows Cocalico closely can name the fullbacks of the recent past. To become one is a huge compliment.

“Whether you’re a ground-and-pound, three-yards guy or flashier with a lot of speed, it works either way,” said Brandon Brubaker. “It’s really a solid offense as long as it’s executed. It doesn’t need a specific person.”

Strohl follows an account on X called “Make Fullbacks Great Again.” Cocalico has produced one after another for decades.

Not even time can change it.

Unstoppable

Three-and-a-third yards per attempt. That was the philosophy under coach Phil Kauffman. If a fullback can fall forward and gain that much, he’ll keep moving the chains.

“That was your responsibility,” Tab Musser said. “Even when the defense knew you were going there and you knew you were going there.”

It was an honor. Everyone knows what we run. Everyone knows where the ball is going. There’s a lot of pride behind carrying it.

Above, Cocalico’s Tab Musser took a break in the weight room on Oct. 22, 1996. The third-leading rusher in program history, Musser — now an assistant superintendent at Hempfield — was one of the most feared fullbacks to don an Eagles uniform. Below, Anthony Bourassa, who is No. 9 on the all-time rushing list, runs the ball against Warwick at Eagle Stadium on Oct. 22, 2021.

CHRIS KNIGHT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER PHOTOS

— Anthony Bourassa, Cocalico fullback, Class of 2022

Cocalico’s Austin Hartman, right, follows the blocking of Zachary Rissler on Solanco’s Donta Henderson in the first quarter of a LancasterLebanon League Section Two game on Nov. 5, 2010. Hartman — who finished his career as the program’s leading rusher with 5,116 yards — led the Eagles into the District Three playoffs that night by rushing for 200 yards and 4 touchdowns on 24 carries.

Fullbacks: Storied tradition at Cocalico

Continued from 4

If you ask people to choose the greatest fullback to ever wear that blue-and-white uniform, Musser’s name inevitably enters the conversation. He racked up 4,092 yards before graduating in 1997.

The easiest way to sort through the program’s alltimers is to attach them to their head coach. Kauffman was followed by Dave Gingrich in 2004, and Gingrich was followed by Strohl in 2020. Each successor was an assistant before taking over the head job.

Musser had the most yards under Kauffman. Austin Hartman was No. 1 under Gingrich. Hartman, from the Class of 2011, is the school’s record holder at 5,116. Strohl’s best fullback is to be determined. He’s entering his fifth season.

The Mussers occupy a unique place in the chain.

Brock, Tab’s younger brother, collected 3,080 yards through 2001. That’s more than 7,000 yards from one family.

The charm of the triple option is a player from yesteryear could be inserted into today’s lineup without struggling much to adapt.

“I would say some of the core principles are the same,” Tab Musser said. “It’s a little speedier than it was back when I played.”

Three-and-a-third yards has been replaced by longer gains. That’s one concession Cocalico made as spread offenses have turned high school football into a highscoring affair.

Other points of emphasis never go out of style. Don’t commit penalties. Don’t turn the ball over. Move people up front and pound the defense with the fullback.

That last part is what Musser enjoyed most.

“Not to sound too much like a meathead,” he said, “but who wouldn’t want to run down the line and smash into somebody for a couple of yards?”

Wear and tear

The aches and pains are the worst on Saturday mornings. About 12 hours after the games end, a new day must begin.

“It was more rolling out of bed than getting out of bed,” said Brubaker, who finished with 2,554 yards in 2018. “You could feel where you got hit. You could feel which ones got you good.”

VINNY TENNIS | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

L-L SECTION ONE: TEAM BY TEAM

HEMPFIELD BLACK KNIGHTS

MANHEIM TOWNSHIP BLUE STREAKS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A

n Head coach: Nick Lambros (first season).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 4-3.

n 2023 results: 8-3 (4-2 Section One).

n Key players returning: QB

Nick Lambros

Jackson Custer, OT Alex Kissinger, OT-DT Tristan Long, WR-LB Malachi Victor, WR-DB Jack Waranavage, TE-DE Seth Warren.

OUTLOOK

n Graduation was not kind to the Falcons — 11 all-stars departed — who have a lot of holes to plug after going postseason dancing last fall. And the Falcons must retool under a first-year coach, Lambros, who knows his way around Cedar Crest’s football facility. The good news: Custer returns to QB the offense, and he’ll have one of his favorite targets, Waranavage, back on the flanks. And Long returns to anchor both lines; he’s a force. After that, it’s a lot of fresh faces for the Falcons, who will be revamping on the fly this fall.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Hate to say Cedar Crest won’t be jostling with the lead pack come mid-October. But the Falcons will need to spackle a lot of holes and get a lot of guys game ready in real time. Call it a transition season of sorts in Cornwall. And that’s not always a bad thing. Still, don’t overlook this crew; should be some good vibes flowing after a playoff trip last fall.

MCCASKEY RED TORNADO

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A.

n Head coach: Ben Thompson (fourth season, 5-25).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n 2023 results: 2-8 (1-5 Section One).

n Key players returning: OL-NG Alexis

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A.

n Head coach: George Eager (fifth season, 23-19).

n Base offense: Pro Style.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n 2023 results: 3-7 (2-4 Section One).

n Key players returning: WR-LB Orion Abrams, WR-DB Dominic Acevedo, K Brady Biscoe, WR-LB Brayden Charles, RB-DB Grayson Doyle, TE-LB David Ennis, LB Brody Gebhard, TE-DE Phillip Krauser, WR-DB Cam Margeson.

OUTLOOK

n After a couple really solid seasons — a section title in 2022 and back-to-back spirited district-playoff runs — the Knights dipped back to the pack last fall. Priority No. 1 this season: Flushing last year and getting back up on the horse. Pronto. Priority No. 2: Finding a QB; juniors Derek Katch and Aiden Boland were vying for that gig in camp. Meanwhile, Acevedo and Gebhard — he fired a no-hitter during Hempfield’s joyride to the state 6A baseball title in the spring — were all-star defenders last fall. Charles, Krauser and Margeson are reliable targets. And Biscoe can boot it. Some new faces in Landisville, yes. But the cupboard is hardly bare.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Gotta believe Hempfield starts shimmying its way back up the Section One hierarchy this time around, especially if the new QB jives with his veteran targets. Line play will be key — the Knights will have some new guys learning on the go in the trenches — and a quick start would behoove Hempfield; momentum is your friend in Section One.

Beriguete, DB Ben Cadet, QB Jalen Cintron, OT-DL Adrias Collazo, OL-DL Deiumel Gerard, LB Jayden Hudson, RB-DB Jalil Johnson, WR-DB DeAndre Jones, OT-DT A.J. Martin, WR Alisay Ramos, C-DL Jan Ramos, RB-DB Armani Rivera, LB Sam Ruggiero, WR Ian Santiago, LB Johnzell Sibley, DL Khali Sloan, OG-DT Henry Snider.

OUTLOOK

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A.

n Head coach: Mark Evans (13th season, 100-41).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 3-3.

n 2023 results: 12-1 (6-0 Section One).

n Key players returning:

OT-LB Tom Capizzi, RB-LB Declan Clancy (Section One Linebacker of the Year), WRDB Daryus Dixon, RB Allan Feliciano, OG-DE Greg Gillespie, WR-DB Lex Haberbosch, QB Jack Kenneff, C-DE Owen Marks, OT Spencer McClintock, OG Will Milazzo, K Johnny Morales, DB Donovan Rodriguez, RB-DT Taylor Veilleux, QB-P Carson Weisser.

OUTLOOK

n It’s hard not to wince when you peruse the Streaks’ key-players-lost list, which includes Big 33 picks in QB Hayden Johnson, WR Landon Kennel and DE Eli Rodriguez. Yes, Township lost some major thumpers to graduation, and that’s no secret. But the cupboard is hardly bare in Neffsville, with returning talent

n If you want to compete in big-boy Section One circles, you better have some hammers up front. McCaskey appears to have that covered, with center Ramos, tackles Collazo and Martin, and guards Beriguete and Snider all due back to man the O trenches. They’ll show the way for the veteran pitch-and-catch combo of Cintron and Jones. Keep an eye on newbie RB Marquise Washington to be the feature back. Question mark is linebacker, where McCaskey lost some serious ball-hawkers.

aplenty due back, such as: Capizzi, Gillespie, Marks, McClintock and Milazzo on the O-line; Veilleux stuffing the run at DT; Rodriguez spearheading the secondary; and Clancy, one of the top multipurpose talents in the L-L. That’s a lot of firepower. And why Township has the goods to successfully defend its section crown.

CRYSTAL BALL

n We’re anxious to see who succeeds Johnson — he of the glittering 49 TD tosses and zero interceptions last fall — behind center; Kenneff and Weisser have taken some random varsity snaps. Whoever gets the gig has some massive cleats to fill, as Johnson (7,536 air yards) departed the program as the fourth-leading passer in L-L history. The new QB will also have a stout line and plenty of playmakers at his disposal. Rugged nonleague schedule should have Township prepped and ready for another section grind and playoff run. Insert bull’s-eye here.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Is McCaskey ready to bust out of the pack and challenge the usual suspects for section glory? Time will tell, but it looks like the pieces are here for the Tornado to compete and make some waves. Cintron can make plays. Jones was an all-star pick at WR, DB and return man last fall. Cut down on the penalties and turnovers. Hope the trench guys win a goodly amount of battles up front. Stop people with a new-look D. Do that, and McCaskey has the goods to make plenty of ripples.

CAPSULES BY JEFF REINHART

George Eager

Mark Evans

From left, McCaskey’s DeAndre Jones, Adrias Collazo, Jalen Cintron, Aaron Martin and Ben Cadet pose during media day Aug. 2.

Ben Thompson

L-L SECTION ONE: TEAM BY TEAM

PENN MANOR COMETS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A.

n Head coach: John Brubaker (10th season, 25-63).

n Base offense: Triple Option.

n Base defense: 4-3.

n 2023 results: 4-6 (3-3 Section One).

n Key players returning: WRDB Elijah Garland, OL-DL Elijah Hess, DL Josue Isosa, K-P Zach Jeffers, OL-DL Xavier Mays, C-DL Jamaal Millisock, LB Shawn Morant, OGDL Matt Neumann, LS Jason Osman, QB Collin Robinson, WR-DB Nate Ruiz, RB Adrian Smith, LB Jahmai Torres, DB Jack Warfel.

OUTLOOK

n There are some interesting pieces due back in Comet Country — 16 full-time starters return — and Penn Manor’s list of key newcomers is 17 deep, so Brubaker and his staff will also be slotting in some fresh faces for a nice mix. The veteran crew includes four linemen — Hess, Mays, Millisock and Neumann — plus Robinson is back to pilot the triple option. He took some snaps last year, and he’ll have athlete du jour Smith and flank-man Ruiz at his disposal. Kicking game should also be in good shape with Jeffers back to handle those chores.

CRYSTAL BALL

n The Comets scared the living daylights out of everyone last fall, and were that Section One team nobody wanted to play down the stretch. Ask Hempfield. The good news is that Penn Manor returns a nifty nucleus to build around, and if the Comets mesh quickly, look out. A .500 season — or better — is not out of the question here, as Penn Manor looks to keep pace with the usual suspects. Penn Manor’s

WILSON BULLDOGS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A.

n Head coach: Doug Dahms (19th season, 18542).

n Base offense: Zone Read.

n Base defense: 4-3, 3-4.

n 2023 results: 7-4 (5-1 Section One).

n Key players returning: RB Correll Akings, RB-DB Monty Greer, QB-WR-DB Madyx Gruber, TE-LB Christo Hunsicker, TE Brady Kline, OG-DT Derek Reiniger, DE Cam Zullinger.

OUTLOOK

n The bar is very high and the goals remain the same for the Bulldogs, who are ready for the next wave of players in the pipeline to step in and step up. First area of concern is the trenches; Wilson must replace some serious beef up front. And there will be a new QB; jack-of-all-trades Gruber and newbie Mason Young were duking it out for snaps this summer. Kline is a veteran redzone target at TE; Hunsicker is a terrific twoway threat; and Akings can run between the tackles and is a pass-catching threat out of the backfield. Some new looks, yes. But once the Bulldogs get up to cruising speed, they’ll be A-OK.

CRYSTAL BALL

n It’s been three years — an eternity in West Lawn — since the Bulldogs won a section championship. Can this crew raise a gold trophy come late October? The short answer is yes. Hey, it’s Wilson. But the Bulldogs must smooth over a couple of potholes and hope the newbies — especially the guys up front — figure things out.

READING RED KNIGHTS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A.

n Head coach: Troy Godinet (third season, 4-16).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: Multiple. n 2023 results: 1-9 (0-6 Section One).

n Key players returning:

RB Alexis Alvarado, WR-DB Xavier Beatty, RB-DB Zumar Boston, OT Keyshawn Efese, OG Romello Fuentes, QB Kayson Fritz, LB Gabriel Laws, QB Jason Plylaharn, WR-DB Kahlil Samuel, WR-DB Idris Weaver.

OUTLOOK

n After compiling just a 1-11 mark in

section games in their first two seasons back in the L-L, the Red Knights look to gain some traction and start working their way up the charts. There are some key pieces back who could help make that happen, starting with Efese and Fuentes returning to anchor the offensive line. Efese is piling up the college offers, and he should pancake plenty of backfield blitzers this fall. Five more names to know: QB combo Fritz and Plylaharn both took snaps last fall. Alvarado was one of the leading rushers in the section last season. Beatty is a returning all-star on the flanks and he’s a weapon in the return game. And Laws is a ball-hawker from his linebacker spot in the middle of Reading’s defense.

CRYSTAL BALL

n The Knights are itching to make some noise and announce their return to

Section One with authority. But they’ve hit a speed bump; Reading hasn’t had a winning season since 2019, and the Knights are just 5-26 since then. For Reading, it’s about securing some firm

footing, developing some depth coming up through the pipeline and just being competitive on a more consistent basis. Be patient; the Knights will be back in the W column soon enough.

Adrian Smith runs the ball against Hempfield on Sept. 29, 2023.

John Brubaker

Troy Godinet

Doug Dahms

2024 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

WHO’S READY FOR A NEW YEAR OF L-L FOOTBALL?

Starting with this special capsule edition, plus full season previews of all 37 teams appearing online this week, we’ll have you covered for your L-L football needs this season. Each week has several ways to find football content alongside our traditional previews, features and game coverage.

Midweek, go online for the L-L Football Roundtable, where

writers Jeff Reinhart, Jason Guarente and Mike Gross interview players and coaches, recap the previous week and preview the coming week’s matchups.

Also, keep an eye out for LNP’s L-L football podcast with Jeff Reinhart, back for an encore season.

We’ll also have our weekly live scoreboard every Friday night at LancasterOnline, and five days a week you can

have the “L-L Football Exclusive” newsletter, curated by Jeff Reinhart, sent right to your email inbox. Each entry brings you news, notes and more.

Or, if you want ALL the sports and stats, you can sign up for our LNP Sports Pass — a sports-only digital subscription — for just $4 a month or $40 a year. For more information or to sign up, visit LancasterOnline.com/sports

2024 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

L-L SECTION TWO: TEAM BY TEAM

CONESTOGA VALLEY BUCKSKINS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Jon Scepanski (third season, 14-8).

n Base offense: Spread Wing-T.

n Base defense: 4-3. n 2023 results: 9-3 (5-1 Section Two).

Jon

Scepanski

n Key players returning: WR-DB Cordell Bair, C-DE Justin Corson, WR-DB JoJo Garcia, RB-DB Jayden Johnson (Section Two co-Offensive Back of the Year), RB-LB Seth Morgan (Section Two Linebacker of the Year), RB-LB Teagan Ruble, WR-DB Isaiah Sensenig, OT Jay Stauffer, OG-DT Tal Stoltzfus, OG Cam Zoll.

OUTLOOK

n The Bucks are back. Not that CV’s program disappeared, mind you. But Scepanski’s crew made a spirited run in Section Two last fall, and won a district playoff game for the first time since 2009. A couple grad hits, but the Bucks will return 14 starters, including five all-star picks. All eyes on Swiss Army-Knife Johnson, a 1,000yard back last fall and one of the league’s fastest athletes. Corson and Morgan are serious ball-hawkers on D. Sensenig quarterbacks the secondary. Stoltzfus anchors both lines. And CV’s brass are excited about newbie QB Sawyer Esbenshade.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Weapons are in Witmer for a run at section supremacy and a return playoff invite, especially if Esbenshade makes a big splash behind center. He’ll have playmakers aplenty at his disposal and an experienced line to keep him upright. There will be some obstacles to dip, duck and dodge along the way, but the Bucks should be banging on the door at the finish line.

ELIZABETHTOWN BEARS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Keith Stokes (third season, 10-11).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n 2023 results: 2-8 (2-4 Section Three).

n Key players returning: WR Alexis Cintron, DB Jacob Engle, OG Connor Frey, QB Brayden Huber, QB Trent Kauffman, DB Caleb Kreider, RB Brady Moran, OG Greyson Seaman.

EPHRATA MOUNTAINEERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Kris Miller (ninth season, 38-43).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n 2023 results: 12-2 (5-1 Section Three).

n Key players returning:

Kris Miller

OT-DE Landon Barton, RBLB Brayden Brown, WR-DB Nate Conover, OG-DE Brennan Frymoyer, QB Caleb Grant, K-P Evan Honberger, LB Dustin Hoover, WR-DB Nick Keller, OG-DT Daniel Mendoza, OT-LB Jackson Nolt, RB-DE Alex Ortiz, C-LB Landon Pilon, RB-LB Chase Prange, TE-LB Dominic Pugh.

OUTLOOK

n Anxious to see how the Mounts follow up last year’s magical journey to the district championship game, 12 wins and a Section Three tri-title. It was the best season in Ephrata football history, and then the Mounts lost 10 all-stars to graduation — and they landed back in Section Two for the first time since 2017. Ephrata returns five stalwart O-line pluggers — Barton, Frymoyer, Mendoza, Nolt (also a defensive ringleader) and Pilon — plus Brown, a durable 1,300yard back and top-shelf linebacker on D; L-L

OUTLOOK

n A new address for the Bears, who packed their stuff and touched down back in the familiar Section Two cul-de-sac after a two-year run in Section Three. E-town came back to the pack last fall, one year after a playoff appearance. And then some offensive playmakers and defensive tackle-makers moved on; E-town returns zero all-star picks from 2023. Names to know: Huber and Kauffman shared the QB

Keith Stokes

duties last year and they’re penciled in to both get snaps again. Having O-guards Frey and Seaman back to anchor the line is a good start. And Moran and Cintron should have the ball in their hands a lot. After that, some new faces.

CRYSTAL BALL

n We’ll see if the change of scenery — and some nifty upgrades on home turf at Thompson Field — will fuel the Bears, who have some holes to plug. Was last year a blip? Can E-town muscle its way back into contention? Bear Country can’t wait to find out.

EXETER EAGLES

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Matt Bauer (16th season, 11356).

n Base offense: Multiple.

n Base defense: 4-4.

n 2023 results: 8-3 (4-2 Section Two).

n Key players returning: RB-DB Pharrell Caceres, TE-LB Aiden Dauble, LB Tyler Flanders, K Robbie Gaston, LB Casey Gerhart, QB Riley Martinez, DT Kevin Oswalt, WR Carter Redding, TE-LB Genuine Stutzman, C-DE Joel Ummarino, WR Jayden Ware, OT-DT Logan Wegman, RB-DB Jayden Zandier. OUTLOOK

sprint champ Keller on the flanks along with Conover, who returns from a knee injury; two-way terror Prange; reliable specialist Honberger; and Grant has taken some varsity snaps behind center. It might look a tad different at the outset — that keyplayers-lost list is pretty lengthy — but the Mounts have the artillery to keep this ride going.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Fantastic vibes flowing for Ephrata, which has gone from afterthought to section champ and district finalist. And now the pipeline is producing all-star caliber players and they’re hungry to do more damage. Lead pack again for sure — even in some new section surroundings — with the potential for another playoff ride. It’s a good time to be in the Mounts’ program.

n Fine and dandy for the Eagles, who are set to return an abundance of talent on both sides of the ball. Martinez, a 1,300-yard passer last fall, returns to trigger the offense, which features breakaway back Zandier, a 1,300-yard rusher last season, and home-run hitter wideouts in Redding and Ware. Caceres and Stutzman are also returning playmakers. O-line is in terrific shape, spearheaded by Wegman, who committed to Navy. Great crew of linebackers return — Dauble, Flanders and Gerhart will hawk you non-stop — and Ummarino is a pest off the edge.

CRYSTAL BALL

n We’ll go ahead and stamp the section bull’s-eye tag on Exeter, which should be plenty motivated after failing to successfully defend its section title last fall — that was derailed after lateseason setbacks against Conestoga Valley and Manheim Central — before a surprising first-round flameout in the district playoffs. Weapons are here. Motivation is here. It should be a fun ride for the Eagles. Crank it up and rip the knob off.

CAPSULES BY JEFF REINHART

Matt Bauer

Ephrata’s Nick Keller hauls in a pass over Garden Spot’s JJ Waltman during an L-L League Section Three game on Sept. 29, 2023.

CHRIS KNIGHT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

L-L SECTION TWO: TEAM BY TEAM

GOVERNOR MIFFLIN MUSTANGS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A (up from 5A).

n Head coach: Nick Morrissey (first season).

n Base offense: Triple Option.

n Base defense: 4-3.

n 2023 results: 5-6 (3-3 Section Two).

n Key players returning: DT Ismael Ayala, TE-LB Derek Dinatale, RB Grady Garner, RB-DB Reese Hohl, WR-DB Travis Jenkins, C Gavin Kelly, QB Javien Pletz, OG-DT Presley Rinker, OT Cooper Seifert, TE-LB Dylon Worley.

OUTLOOK

n There are a lot of nice pieces back for the Mustangs, who went to the postseason last fall. Mifflin has some muscle in the trenches, with Kelly, Rinker and Seifert back to anchor the O-line. They’ll block for some familiar faces, like Pletz returning to steer the option game at QB, Garner getting the tough yards between the tackles from his fullback spot, and playmakers Hohl and Jenkins, who should both get a lot of touches. Keep an eye on Hohl; he’s a heck of an athlete.

CRYSTAL BALL

n The Eastern Conference playoff trip last year should motivate the Mustangs to make a run for the District Three bracket this time. That could be a tougher road to traverse with the new 6A tag. But a bounce here and a bounce there, and Mifflin has the tools to be in the section race — and in line for a district bid — in crunch time.

MUHLENBERG MUHLS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Rob Flowers (first season).

n Base offense: Spread Option.

n Base defense: 4-2-5.

n 2023 results: 1-9 (1-5 Section Two).

Lebanon’s Kai Rivera runs for yardage against Garden Spot on Aug. 31, 2023.

Rob Flowers

n Key players returning: DT Jack Carmona, LB Jeffrie Collado, WR Ariel Cruz, OT Samson Evans, OT Tony Ferriera, DE Romeo Grullon, DT Justin Jacquez, C Conner Kantner, WR-LB Michael Miller, OG Zavier Otero, LB Ryan Rosenberry, DB Josiah Urbaez.

OUTLOOK

n A regime change for the Muhls, starting

on the top floor, where Flowers has returned to his alma mater to take over the coaching chores. He’s a familiar face in Berks circles, and he’s coming off a stint as Daniel Boone’s coach — after a long ride at Reading. He inherits a squad with a couple key pieces back — Michael Miller is an excellent athlete ticketed for big things, and Zavier Otero returns to anchor the O-line — and a long list of promising newbies ready to step in and step up for this proud program. Flowers — who has 16 assistant coaches on his staff, including a director of yoga and mindfulness, which is all kinds of awesome — is determined to wake up the echoes and make Muhlenberg a contender again.

CRYSTAL BALL

n The Muhls went 2-10 in section play and

CAPSULES BY JEFF REINHART

LEBANON CEDARS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 6A.

n Head coach: Tyler Pritchett (first season).

n Base offense: Wing-T.

n Base defense: 3-3.

n 2023 results: 0-10 (0-6 Section Two).

n Key players returning: WR-DB Malachi Briddell, QB Brandyn Castro, WR-DB Anthony Klish, OG-NG Omar Millette, RB-LB Kai Rivera, LB Messiah Wilson.

OUTLOOK

n Changes aplenty in Cedar Nation, starting at the top, where Pritchett — an Alabama native who played at DI North Carolina, NAIA Faulkner and DII Benedict, where he was an allconference O-lineman — takes over the coaching duties at a program in dire need of a B12 shot. Pritchett junked Lebanon’s Spread attack in favor of a ground-and-pound Wing-T look, and the Cedars will now operate out of a 3-3 D instead of a 3-4. Two names to know: Castro has some varsity snaps under his belt, and Rivera is a durable back who can rumble between the tackles.

CRYSTAL BALL

n We hate to keep reminding the good people of Lebanon about this losing skid, but … the Cedars’ L streak sits at 32 mind-blowing games in a row. Their last victory: Oct. 9, 2020. With a new coach, new schemes and a lot of fresh faces, this will be the ultimate transition season for Lebanon, which continues to mix, match and concoct a recipe for some wins.

3-17 overall in their first two seasons back in the L-L. Consider this a fresh start, with a new coach, some new schemes and a new-look section slate. Sometimes you just need to flick the reset button, tear

it all down, bring a yoga instructor on board, and start from scratch. Gut hunch is that it won’t take Flowers very long to get Muhlenberg back on the straight and narrow.

Tyler Pritchett

Nick Morrissey

Overview: Fresh faces and revamped sections for L-L ’24

Section Three

Plenty of changes here, with Daniel Boone, Elizabethtown, Ephrata and Twin Valley having vacated, and Cocalico, Conrad Weiser, Manheim Central and Warwick on board. It’s the first time in the league’s 52-year history that the Barons and the Warriors will set up shop in Section Three.

Five of the seven teams here call Lancaster County home, with Cocalico, Garden Spot, Manheim Central, Solanco and Warwick digging in. It’s like an old-school Section Two reunion of sorts, and it will be great watching some of those rivalries being renewed.

Good luck making sense of this race. Cocalico is coming off a Section Four title and its second straight district 5A crown. Manheim Central is fresh off a Section Two title and its second straight trip to the district 4A championship. And Garden Spot split the Section Three crown with Ephrata and Twin Valley on the way to the playoffs last fall.

Solanco and Warwick aren’t that far removed from section titles and playoff trips of their own. Meanwhile, Conrad Weiser returns 18 full-time performers from last season, and Fleetwood has a nice nucleus back from a squad that won the Eastern Conference 4A championship last year.

Seven teams. Seven solid resumes. And a lot of programs with proven pedigrees. All eyes on the Section Three race, which has all the makings of a photo finish.

Section Four

A couple of changes here: Cocalico, Conrad Weiser and Berks Catholic have shipped out; Daniel Boone, Northern Lebanon and Twin Valley are new. Things can change, of course, but this is shaping up to be a heck of a two-horse race between Twin Valley and Wyomiss-

ing, who both have the goods to claim this banner.

The Raiders shared Section Three gold last year. The Spartans captured the Section Four flag in 2022, then were tripped up by Cocalico last fall, but still went on to win their fifth straight District Three Class 3A championship.

TV will trot out arguably its best team in program history, one year after going to the district’s 4A semifinals. And the Raiders will host Wyomissing in Week Eight. Don’t miss that one.

File Lampeter-Strasburg and Elco un-

der the never-count-them-out column, as the Pioneers and the Raiders — both coming off playoff victories in 2023 — will have some tweaking to do. But make no mistake: They’ll both push.

Daniel Boone, Donegal, Northern Lebanon and Octorara should be in the chase pack. But don’t sleep on any of those crews, who would love to toss an oily monkey wrench into the proceedings.

Section Five

Just one change here: Goodbye, Northern Lebanon; hello, Berks Catholic.

There was a three-way knot for section glory here last fall, with Annville-Cleona, Lancaster Catholic and Schuylkill Valley sharing the grand prize, in a topsy-turvy race that went right down to the finish line.

tory last fall.

Twin Valley’s Evan Myers poses at Manheim Central’s Elden Rettew Field on Aug. 12. Myers and the Raiders, who shared the Section Three crown last season, are moving into Section Four this time around. Waiting to greet them is perennial state contender Wyomissing in what looks to become a tremendous race to the season’s finish line.

Lancaster Catholic must replace 1,800-yard rusher Elijah Cunningham, but steady QB David Stefanow and breakaway back Brandon Way are due back to do more damage. And here’s thinking Hamburg, with the return of 2,700-yard passer Tyler Shuey, will throw its hat in the ring of section contenders.

It should also be status quo for Annville-Cleona, which returns a nice nucleus from last year’s playoff qualifier. Berks Catholic, with rookie skipper Dave Stahler at the helm, should also make some waves in its new surroundings.

Meanwhile, Kutztown will flash a rugged rushing attack, Pequea Valley has some weapons and is hoping a hot start will carry over into section play, and Columbia returns 1,700-yard passer Cameron McClair for his much-anticipated sophomore season.

The clear-cut favorite this time around is Schuylkill Valley, which returns ample talent on both sides of the ball — including 2,000-yard passer Logan Nawrocki — from a team that won a District Three Class 3A playoff game for the first time in program his-

n Sports writer Jeff Reinhart covers LancasterLebanon League football for LNP | LancasterOnline. Email him at jreinhart@lnpnews.com, and follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @JeffReinhart77.

CHRIS KNIGHT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Fullbacks: Continuing to help Cocalico thrive on the gridiron

Fullbacks are always colliding with someone. It’s not just when they log their 20-plus carries. They’re often decoys. Every time a quarterback chooses to keep the ball or flips it to the tailback, it’s because the defense is about to drill option No. 1.

Those hits accumulate during the season. They take a toll.

Sam Steffey, last year’s starter, couldn’t make it through all 14 games because of the punishment. Steffey learned quickly how much the offense relies on the fullback. He carried 42 times against Berks Catholic as a junior.

“The wear and tear is a lot,” said Steffey, who rushed for 2,682 yards and graduated in the spring. “You’re trying to be a leader. You’re getting tackled 50 times. If you play defense, you’re basically hitting every single play. That was definitely my least favorite part of the position.”

The methodical nature of the offense is what makes it so effective. It takes away the defense’s will. It keeps the opposing offense on the sideline.

Cocalico can string together 15-play drives, or longer, and steal an entire quarter off the clock. Opponents and their fans grow impatient.

“They would definitely get upset,” said Anthony Bourassa, who had 2,728 yards and was part of the Class of 2022. “You would hear them say, ‘C’mon, let’s go!’ Or they’d take cheap shots at me in the pile. You could tell they were getting frustrated. It was fun to see.”

Cocalico won the District Three Class 5A championship two years ago as the lowest seed in the 12-team field. When the triple option is clicking, it sometimes doesn’t matter if the other team is more talented. The Eagles can’t be stopped.

Centers of attention

Dane Horning was a standout linebacker and an essential part of Cocalico’s success on its way to repeating as District Three champs last season.

Once Steffey suffered an injury and Horning stepped into that spot, his profile changed. The yardage totals skyrocketed and his name appeared in headlines.

“You’re gonna get a lot of attention playing fullback at Cocalico,” Horning said. “That’s the way it works.”

Horning has a chance to become the greatest under Strohl. The junior is preparing for his first season as the full-time starter and already has 777 yards. Fullback in this offense seems like a glamorous position to an outsider. Those who have played it say that’s not neces-

sarily the right description. This is hard work. It’s dirty work. It just happens to come with some perks.

“I’ll joke with Coach Strohl sometimes,” Horning said. “How about we run a pass play here? The generations running the triple option and each year getting better with it, I take pride in that. It’s what we’re known for.”

Horning and his peers are always quick to credit their blockers. That’s a requirement. Every postgame interview brings a reminder that success is impossible without the boys up front.

While that’s certainly true, the player with the most yards and the most touchdowns tends to get the most recognition.

Steffey liked that part.

“If I said no, I’d be lying,” he said. “It was definitely a plus. I think every fullback will tell you all the glamour and

that stuff is 100% deserved. You really go through hell throughout the year. It’s the most painful thing I’ve ever done.”

Every fan can see the contributions of the fullback. Every rival is determined to shut him down.

A fraternity

Today’s Cocalico players will sometimes run into Musser in the weight room during early-morning workouts. Even though 27 years have passed, the Eagles are aware of his achievements.

Tab is now Dr. Musser. He’s an assistant superintendent with the Hempfield School District. Those high school days remain his glory days.

“Friday nights in fall will always hold a special place for me,” Musser said. The fullbacks are forever linked. From

the Musser brothers to Devin Orme to Hartman to Nick Reitenbach to Brubaker to Garrett Longenecker to … on and on it goes.

They were chosen. They were relied upon. They kept the tradition going.

“It was an honor,” Bourassa said. “Everyone knows what we run. Everyone knows where the ball is going. There’s a lot of pride behind carrying it.”

For most of them, this was the highlight of their athletic lives. It’s one of the most prestigious assignments in LancasterLebanon League football. That was true 30 years ago. It’s true today.

“I loved every second of it,” Brubaker said. “I wouldn’t take it back. I wouldn’t play another position if I had the chance.”

Every Cocalico fullback agrees. All the aches and pains were worth it.

Former Cocalico coach Phil Kauffman instructs fullback Brock Musser, center, and lineman Chris Burns on the finer points of the offense on Aug. 27, 2000. Musser, a fullback who graduated in 2001, ranks seventh on the Eagles’ all-time rushing list with 3,080 yards.

L-L SECTION THREE: TEAM BY TEAM

COCALICO EAGLES

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Bryan Strohl (fifth season, 32-16).

n Base offense: Flexbone.

n Base defense: 4-3.

n 2023 results: 12-2 (7-0 Section Four).

Bryan Strohl

n Key players returning: WR-DB David Betz, RB-LB Dane Bollinger, C-DT Thomas Dattoli, RB-DB Brayden Eppinette, RB-LB Dane Horning, OT-LB Jerry McArdle, OG-DE Nick McArdle, QB Josh Myer, K Talen Popolis.

OUTLOOK

n Happy days in Denver, where Cocalico has captured consecutive District Three 5A championships. Is a three-peat in the cards? It won’t be easy, not after the Eagles lost 20 seniors — and 13 all-stars — from last

CONRAD WEISER SCOUTS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A (up from 4A).

n Head coach: Alan Moyer (22nd season, 138-95).

n Base offense: Pro Style.

n Base defense: 4-4.

n 2023 results: 2-8 (2-5 Section Four).

year’s team. Strohl’s first order of business is putting together an entirely new O-line. That group will block for some strong returning talent, including pitch-man Myer at QB, Bollinger and Horning up the gut — and they’re both D ringleaders — and speedster Eppinette off the wing. After that, a lot of fresh faces, plus Bollinger is on the shelf with an injury. But it usually doesn’t take Cocalico very long to reload, so there’s no widespread panic in Denver.

CRYSTAL BALL

n A return to Section Three for the first time since 2003, and some terrific matchups against a lot of old foes for the Eagles, who will have plenty of bull’s-eyes on their backs after mining Section Four gold and going back to the state semifinals last fall. But a good chunk of that crew is gone. There is a nice nucleus back to lead the charge. But Cocalico will need a quick retool on the fly if it wants another extended postseason run.

n Key players returning: DT Eugene Booth, OT Kaleb Britting, OT Josh Collela, TE-DE Mason Gechter, QB Donovan Gingrich, OG Jack Heckman, OG Kaleb Holl, DL Ashton Keibach, DB Kaiden Leonard, K Alex Malone, RB Jonathan McQuillen, TE-DE Evan Miller, LB Brody Morgan, WR-DB Evan Rittle (Section Four Receiver of the Year), RB Javien Rivera, LB Na’Air Robinson, OT Charlie Shimp, DE Adam Williams.

OUTLOOK

Alan Moyer

n Weiser flashes one of the longest key-players-returning lists in the league, with 18 full-timers due back from last year, including the veteran pitch-and-catch combo of Gingrich and Rittle and a lot of beef up front. The Scouts find themselves in the rough-and-tumble Section Three, chockfull of longtime Lancaster County powerhouses. Weiser also goes up to Class 5A this fall, and it will do so with plenty of returning talent on both sides of the ball.

FLEETWOOD TIGERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A (up from 4A).

n Head coach: Steve Pangburn (third season, 8-13).

n Base offense: Multiple Gun.

n Base defense: 4-2-5.

n 2023 results: 6-5 (2-4 Section Three).

n Key players returning: OT-DT Brandon Delgrosso, QB-WRDB Chase Domenech, OG Cody Harders, RB-DE Landon Hare, RBLB Trey Killian, QB-WR-LB Tristan McFarland, WR-DB Davyan Moore, WR-DB Brody Nowotarski, RB-LB Jason Petion, OG Noah Rothermel, C-DT Ryan Shay.

all exited. But Delgrosso, Harders, Rothermel and Shay know their way around a line of scrimmage. Killian is a ballhawking linebacker. Petion is ready for more carries. And sleek athletes McFarland and Domenech are vying for QB duties, and they’re both flank threats. Plenty of good vibes percolating after last year’s Eastern Conference playoff win as Fleetwood moves up to Class 5A this season.

CRYSTAL BALL

CRYSTAL BALL

n Plenty of reason for optimism in Scouts’ camp with so many familiar faces back. A fast start in the nonleague slate is a must for this crew, because once the section docket commences, it will be one slobber-knocker after another.

OUTLOOK

n A graduation haymaker, when the QB, 1,500-yard feature back, deep-threat receiver, two O-line grinders and the reliable kicker

n The good news is that there is plenty of momentum in the program. But there are some key skill-kid positions to plug. And this section — jam-packed with Lancaster County power punchers — will be a real test for the Tigers.

Steve Pangburn

Cocalico quarterback Josh Myer runs a keeper against Wyomissing on Oct. 6, 2023.

CHRIS KNIGHT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

L-L SECTION THREE: TEAM BY TEAM

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Matt Zamperini (15th season, 79-77).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 4-2-5.

n 2023 results: 9-2 (5-1 Section Three).

Matt Zamperini

n Key players returning: WR Jace Conrad, TE-DE Kyle Denlinger, WR-DB Trenton Hoober (Section Three Receiver of the Year), LB Cole Humphreys, QB-WR-DB A.J. Hurst, RB Gabe Martin, K Zach Martin, OT-DT Tommy O’Neil, OG-DE Cullen Witmer.

OUTLOOK

n Key pieces aplenty due back in New Holland — including 10 all-stars; five of them first-teamers from 2023 — where the Spartans are coming off a section tri-title and a postseason trip. The most glaring loss is at QB, where dual-threat Kye Harting departed. Enter Hurst, a flank burner and all-star DB who will take over the signal-calling duties. He’ll have plenty of weapons, like all-star wideouts Conrad and Hoober — they combined for 79 catches for 1,307 yards and 21 TDs last fall — and Martin coming out of the backfield. Meanwhile, Denlinger, O’Neil and Witmer are back to anchor the line, and the D is in good shape with Humphreys at linebacker, Hurst and Hoober patrolling the secondary, and Witmer bringing the heat off the edge.

CRYSTAL BALL

n The quicker Hurst can master the passing game the better for Sparty Nation, which should have plenty to cheer about this fall. That section slate is a beast, but there is more than enough veteran presence on Garden Spot’s depth chart to maneuver through it.

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A (up from 4A).

n Head coach: Dave Hahn (10th season, 91-21).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 4-2-5.

Dave Hahn

n 2023 results: 11-2 (6-0 Section Two).

n Key players returning: HB-LB Brodie Daugherty, OT-DT Jason Dougherty, OG Hunter Garber, OGDT Tyler Groff, WR-DB Cody Hess, WR-DB Jayvior Morales, HB-LB Zion Rolon, HB-DE Noah Templin.

OUTLOOK

n A big graduation gut-punch for the Barons, who watched a 5,000yard passer, a 4,000-yard rusher, a couple of home-run hitter flank threats and some D stick-machines check out. But there are some familiar names back, like Dougherty, Garber and Groff to anchor the line; Morales, a ball-hawking safety; and two of the best ’backers in the L-L in Daugherty and Rolon. There will be new skill kids aplenty — including a fresh triggerman behind center and a new feature back — plus some new section foes, and Central goes up to Class 5A this fall. Some winds of change blowing around in Baron Nation, yes. But never, ever count this crew out.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Central reloads. No secret, there. And while that key-players-lost list is pretty daunting, it’s time for the next generation of Barons to step in and do their thing. It’s going to look a little different — think razor-sharp D and a more balanced, perhaps run-heavier, ball-control offense — but Central will be there in late October. Take that to the bank.

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Tony Cox (11th season, 57-57).

n Base offense: Triple Option.

n Base defense: 4-3.

n 2023 results: 3-7 (2-4 Section Three).

Tony Cox

n Key players returning: RBDB Kris Burgos-Wise, OG-DT Desmond Ferguson, RB-DB Gabe Forren, RB Johnny Garcia, OG-DE Noah Gote, QB Austin Jarabak, OT Tyler Kreider, DE Evan Kurtz, LB Thomas Leibley, WR-LB Brighton Lenhart, DT Frank Lucarino, OT Joseph Murry.

OUTLOOK

n Solanco came back to the pack last fall,

THE PLAYBOOK

one year after hoisting the Section Three gold trophy. Can the Mules climb back to the top of the mountain? With a lot of familiar faces back — bell-cow FB Garcia, pitch-man QB Jarabak, stick-meister LB Leibley and some rugged trench troops — the short answer is yes. But this new-look section race will not be a stroll in the park. Cox loves his team’s physicality, and if the Mules are winning the hand-to-hand combat battles along the line of scrimmage, watch out, because there are some jitter-bug playmakers here, like Forren and Burgos-Wise.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Dastardly section slate includes Manheim Central, Cocalico and Garden Spot down the stretch, so Solanco should have a major say in who survives this fracas. Will the Mules be there at the tape? If they’re dominating in the trenches and nobody is stopping slugger Garcia, just maybe. Pack your lunch pale and buckle your seat belts against this crew, because Solanco will keep throwing roundhouses until the bitter end.

WARWICK WARRIORS a win over Muhlenberg last fall. Hursh, off the edge, and active linebackers Sanchez and Shelby should be the hit machines, as Warwick preps for a new-look schedule.

n PIAA: Class 5A.

n Head coach: Bob Locker (24th season, 121-119).

n Base offense: Pistol 1-back.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n 2023 results: 3-7 (2-4 Section Two).

Bob Locker

n Key players returning: C-DT Calvin Bent, OT-DT Wes Brunken, WR-DB Quinn Care, RB-DB Reece Harper, TE-DE Owen Hursh, OT-DE Preston Landis, WR-DB Bode Madara, RB-LB Malachi Rodriguez, OG-DT Owen Rowe, RB-LB Gabe Sanchez, K Tyler Schoffstall, TE-LB Jackson Shelby, WR-DB Judah Willard.

OUTLOOK

n A lot of key players back for the Warriors, including O-line stalwarts Bent, Brunken, Landis and Rowe. Care and Willard are experienced route runners, and Sanchez and Harper have varsity carries under their belts. Warwick will have a new QB — juniors Thomas Myers and Tyler Musser were taking reps in camp. Madara is one to watch in the secondary; he had a pair of pick-6 INT returns in

CRYSTAL BALL

n Warwick is in Section Three for the first time, and the Warriors will see plenty of familiar faces on the league slate, with a bunch of former Section Two foes getting the gang back together. Horses are here to push, especially if the new QB hits the ground running. Do not sleep on Warwick. You’ve been warned.

L-L SECTION FOUR: TEAM BY TEAM

DANIEL BOONE BLAZERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 5A (up from 4A).

n Head coach: J.D. Okuniewski (second season, 1-9).

n Base offense: Shotgun Wing-T.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n 2023 results: 1-9 (0-6 Section Three).

n Key players returning: DB Darius Cruz, WR-LB Harrison Delissaint, WR-DB Blake Elliott, LB Bradley Floria, RB-DB Max Heffner, RB-LB Anthony High, OG-LB Chase Kitchen, C-DL Trent Lenker, QB-DB Haydn Moyer, OL-DT Jorge Pingarron, LB Ryan Poore, OL-DL Jabrae Pratt, OT-DL Maddox Roy, TE-LB Jayden Salata, RB-LB Jayden Williams.

OUTLOOK

n The first thing that pops off the page

ELCO RAIDERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A.

n Head coach: Bob Miller (13th season, 64-57).

n Base offense: Veer.

n Base defense: 5-2.

n 2023 results: 8-4 (4-3 Section Four).

is Moyer switching from RB to QB. That won’t be the only position changes, with Heffner and High — previously passcatching flank threats — heading for the backfield as the Blazers did some tinkering in the offseason. Heffner will be joined by Moyer in the secondary, giving Boone a pair of heads-up safeties. It’s Year Two in Birdsboro for Okuniewski, and while his squad won’t have a ton of depth, he likes his team’s maturation — and position flexibility, apparently.

CRYSTAL BALL

n New digs for the Blazers this fall, as they shuffle in from Section Three — Boone flip-flopped with Manheim Central during the realignment process — and bump up to Class 5A. A lot of eyes on Moyer taking over the QB duties and how quickly he meshes with the O-line and his playmakers. Gotta believe the Blazers will be better than last year’s one-win unit. But the quicker Boone coagulates the better, because there are plenty of landmines to sidestep in Section Four.

n Key players returning: OG-DT Luke Bailey, LB Gavin Bicher, RB-LB Mitchell Frederick, DB Griffin Kreider, OT-DT Brayden Malloy, QB Steven Rosado, WR-DB Justin Smucker, DE Brady Stoops, DB Zane Trostle, OG-DT Tupac Vasquez-Disla, OT-DE Paul Williams, RB-DB Austin Yesko.

OUTLOOK

n Despite the loss of all-state 2,400-yard rusher Jake Williams, the sky is not falling in Myerstown. In fact, once you start dissecting the key-players-returning list, there is a really nice nucleus in Raiders’ camp. Like pitch-man QB Rosado coming back to pilot the option. Like some studs up front, including Bailey, Malloy, Vasquez-Disla and Paul Williams. Like some ball-hawkers in the secondary, and Williams and Stoops wreaking havoc off the edge on D. Top priority is finding a new feature back — Yesko and newbie Ellis Gensamer are vying for that role, with Frederick at FB blowing open holes — and getting everyone on the same page.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Wyomissing, Twin Valley and LampeterStrasburg will gobble up a lot of the Section Four headlines. But if you’re looking for a sleeper to crash that party, don’t nap on Elco.

DONEGAL INDIANS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A.

n Head coach: Anthony Sottasante (second season, 3-7).

n Base offense: Flex Option.

n Base defense: 4-3-4. n 2023 results: 3-7 (1-6 Section Four).

Anthony Sottasante

n Key players returning: RB-LB Uri Alkinburgh, OG-DT Brady Allessie, QB-LB Leelan Baughman, OT-DT Chase Border, OTDT Ryan Cantero, RB-LB Vinnie Coco, OT-DT Matt Crider, OT-DT Cole Farley, WR-DB Denzel Fisher, WR-DB Steven Fontanez, OGDE Parker Foye, WR-DB Chase Gerz, OT-DT Jaidin Gichuki, OT-NG Zack Greider, TE-DE Colton Houck, RB-LB Cayden Leaf, RB-LB Matt Lopez, QB-DB Chase Marshall, WR-DB Angel Mendez, OT-DT Hunter Parduski, TEDE Connor Umholtz, RB-LB Quinn Weymers, RB-DE De’Andre White, C-NG Owen Winters.

Peter

kicks a field goal against

on Sept. 22, 2023.

OUTLOOK

n The Indians are just one season removed from a playoff excursion, and they’re more chiseled around the edges after slugging it out in the battle-ax Section Four slog the last two years. A nice nucleus returns, including Allessie, Crider, Parduski and Winters in the trenches. Some newbie playmakers around those guys — White has some carries; Alkinburgh has some flank experience, and he might get more backfield touches this time around; and Baughman is poised to slide behind center for QB duties — and the D troops will have to make stops in section play, which is still quite formidable despite some realignment tweaks.

CRYSTAL BALL

n A playoff run, perhaps, for the Indians? They’ll need a bounce here and a bounce there, and a hot start in the nonleague portion would be ideal. There will be a new QB at the controls. And some other holes to plug. If Donegal can get those spots smoothed over quickly, the Indians should be a thorn in everyone’s side.

LAMPETER-STRASBURG PIONEERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A.

n Head coach: Victor Ridenour (fourth season, 29-8).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 3-stack.

n 2023 results: 9-3 (5-2 Section Four).

n Key players returning: OL-DL Hudson Crutchfield, K Peter Fiorello, TE-LB Emory Fluhr, QB-DB Caileb Howse, OL-DL Collin Shelley, OL Carson Zook.

OUTLOOK

n A bit of a different feel at the outset for the Pioneers, who took a direct hit to the solar plexus in the graduation department when 16 total starters and 10 all-stars — including eight firstteamers — exited. It will start up front for L-S, and the Pioneers should be in good shape there with Crutchfield, Shelley and Zook returning to anchor the line. Keep an eye on newbie QB Howse; he’s taken some varsity snaps and he’s a real bruiser when he tucks it under and takes off. He’ll be flanked by a battalion of new skill kids. Fluhr will spark the D; he’s a ball-hawker. And Fiorello returns for kicking chores; he’s one of the best in the L-L.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Call it a transition season of sorts for L-S, and it would behoove the Pioneers to run with the lead pack for as long as possible this time around, with heavyweights Twin Valley and Wyomissing waiting at the finish line. Should be a heck of a fun final couple of weeks in this race — a race L-S hopes to be in, even with an overabundance of fresh faces in important places.

CAPSULES BY JEFF REINHART

Lampeter-Strrasburg’s

Fiorello

Cocalico

CHRIS KNIGHT

Bob Miller

J.D. Okuniewski

Victor Ridenour

L-L SECTION FOUR: TEAM BY TEAM

NORTHERN LEBANON VIKINGS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A.

n Head coach: Jason Rice (fourth season, 10-21).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 4-3.

n 2023 results: 4-6 (3-4 Section Five).

n Key players returning: OT-LB Hayden Adams, OG-DT Russell Beers, QB-DB Kael Erdman, WR-DB Bryan Mitzel, WR-DB Brady Ryan, WR-DB Brendan Ryan, OT-DE Eli Thompson, RB-DB Myles Watson, TE-LB Bryce Yocum.

OUTLOOK

n Rice said his squad is set to return 95% of its O-line and D-line talent, plus its QB (Erdman), its breakaway RB (Watson) and a talented receiving corps (the firm of Mitzel, Ryan and Ryan). But there’s not a ton of depth behind those guys, and NL finds itself in Section Four, which is a weekly sausage grinder. One scheme change: NL will go 4-3 on defense, junking last year’s 4-2-5 look.

CRYSTAL BALL

n A lot of returning talent in Fredericksburg, and the Vikings are going to need it after landing in Section Four for this cycle. That means bigger boys in the trenches and usually more depth to contend with. The skill-kid department and both lines are in good shape. Develop some depth, flash that returning firepower, win as many wars in the trenches as possible, and NL will surely keep everyone honest.

OCTORARA BRAVES

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A.

n Head coach: Ed Smith (second season, 2-8).

n Base offense: Hybrid Wing-T.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n 2023 results: 2-8 (0-7 Section Four).

n Key players returning: OT-NG Cion Brown, C-DE Ben Eberhardt, RB-LB Austin Kurtz, WR-DB Mehkai Lambert, OT-DE Shaun Myrick, QB-TE-LB Mason Prokay, QB-RB-DB Chandler Stoltzfus, RB-DB Ian Teufert, C-DE Chase Tuel, QB-WR-DB Collin Wood.

OUTLOOK

n Losing 17 seniors to graduation was a stinger. But the good news is that the Braves

feature a strong sophomore class. That could mean some initial on-thefly growing pains as Octorara angles to snap a 14-game league losing skid. Names to know: Stoltzfus and Kurtz are wily vets who can play all over; they’ll be the ringleaders. There is some returning beef in the trenches, keyed by Brown, Eberhardt, Myrick and Tuel. QB duties are up for grabs; Stoltzfus, Prokay, Wood and Seamus Wright are the contenders.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Should be plenty of motivation here after an 0-for in section play the last two years. This is a proud program and the Braves are determined to get back in the lead pack after back-to-back section runner-up finishes — and a playoff trip mixed in there — in 2020-21. Be patient. Let the pipeline do its thing.

TWIN VALLEY RAIDERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A.

n Head coach: Brett Myers (third season, 16-7).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 4-4.

n 2023 results: 10-2 (5-1 Section Three).

n Key players returning:

DB Tristan Bailey, OT-DT Aris Drake, RBDB Drew Engle, WR-DB Ben Grundy, RBDB Evan Johnson, OG-DT Greyson Miller, QB Evan Myers, RB-LB Lucas Myers, WR Justin Pinchotti, DB Brendan Yagle.

OUTLOOK

n Plenty to like in Elverson, where TV returns a troika of top-shelf playmakers in four-year starting QB Myers, plus breakaway backs Engle and Johnson, who both scooted for 1,000-plus rushing yards last year. O-line is in great shape with Drake (a Navy commit) and Miller back to anchor that bunch — which will include Delaware Valley (Milford) transfer Carter Faubel, who is a force. Lucas Myers had a bust-out season all over the field last fall. Remember his name. The bar has been raised. The expectations runneth over. Pieces are in place for a special season for TV.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Gotta believe TV and Wyomissing are the preseason favorites for Section Four supremacy. They’ll clash in Week Eight in Elverson. The winner there just might come out on top. The time is now for the Raiders to be thinking big — and delivering.

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A (up from 3A).

n Head coach: Bob Wolfrum (38th season, 36289-1).

n Base offense: Wing-T.

n Base defense: 3-4.

n2023 results: 12-2 (6-1 Section Four).

Bob Wolfrum

n Key players returning: OT Caleb Beane,

RB-LB Chase Eisenhower, C Francisco Fabian, NG Jordan Gwyn, RB-DB Justice Hardy, RB-DB Derek Macrina, K-P Keegan Maher, LB Tyler Niedrowski, OG-DE Max Tipton.

OUTLOOK

n Some heavy duty graduation hits, yes. But as the L-L League crew is quickly learning, Wyo reloads. As usual, it all starts up front for the Spartans, and that means another rugged O-line unit, keyed by Tipton, who shifts from OT to OG to spearhead that crew. There will be a new QB to pilot the Wing-T attack — looks like White is in line for that gig — with a bushel of backs to carry the rock, including burners Macrina

and Hardy, and plow-horse FB Eisenhower, who will also help anchor the D along with Niedrowski from their linebacker slots. Some ironing out to do early on, but there’s still oodles to like at Wyo.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Hunch is that the Section Four title will somehow, some way go through Wyo, which will again command everyone’s A-game. A couple new faces here and there. But come October, the Spartans will be just fine — and in time for a new playoff picture; Wyo, the five-time reigning District Three 3A champ, goes up to 4A this year per the PIAA success formula.

Jason Rice

Ed Smith

Octorara’s Chandler Stoltzfus runs for yardage against Pequea Valley on Sept. 2, 2023.

ANDY BLACKBURN | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Twin Valley’s Lucas Myers makes a tackle vs. Manheim Central on Nov. 17, 2023.

ANDY BLACKBURN | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Brett Myers

L-L SECTION FIVE: TEAM BY TEAM

ANNVILLE-CLEONA DUTCHMEN

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 3A (up from 2A).

n Coach: Matt Gingrich (10th season, 54-40).

n Base offense: Veer.

n Base defense: 4-3.

n 2023 results: 7-4 (6-1 Section Five).

n Key players returning: C-DE Preston Bomgardner, WR-DB Dominic Casciotti, WR-DB Jack Getty, OG Alex Hemperly, QB-RB-LB Bryce Keller, TE-LB Ivan Kreider, QB-DB Wyatt Mase, RB-DB Jon Moran, TE-LB Hudson Sellers, QB-RB-TE-DE Jonathan Shay (Section Five Defensive Lineman of the Year), DT Jaxon Speece, OG Malacai Victa, RBLB Luke Wentling.

OUTLOOK

n Some holes to plug in Annville, most notably QB, speed back and some all-important line

COLUMBIA CRIMSON TIDE

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 2A.

n Head coach: Brady Mathias (third season, 5-15).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: Multiple.

n 2023 results: 2-8 (1-6 Section 5).

spots after eight all-stars departed. Shay is a fantastic multi-purpose talent who rarely comes off the field. Keller is a durable back who can scoot between the tackles. Bomgardner and Victa know their way around the trenches. And while Mase has taken some random varsity snaps in the Veer, he suffered an injury this summer and is out indefinitely. The plan is for Shay and Keller to take snaps, so there might be a lot of Wildcat in A-C’s future. Certainly not a rebuild here, but some fresh faces will need to get up to speed — especially behind center.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Back-to-back 2A district playoff runs for the Dutchmen, who bump up to 3A this fall. A-C was part of the three-way knot for the section title last season and Gingrich’s crew has the goods to make another run. But they’ll need to iron out the QB situation and have a bunch of new linemen and tackle-makers step in and step up. The quicker the better in what promises to be another cramped pack.

n Key players returning: TE-LB Miguel Aviles, OT-DE Kymere Binder, QB-DB Cameron McClair, RB-DB Kareem Nichols, WR-LB Loudon Rupp, C-LB Luke Rupp, OG-DT Hayden Quinn.

OUTLOOK

Brady Mathias

n A different look for the Tide, especially on the flanks, where three pass-catching all-stars departed. As a result, Mathias said he made some tweaks to the offense, although Columbia will still operate out of a base Spread look. That O will be in good hands, with McClair, a 1,700-yard passer in his debut season last fall, back for his sophomore campaign. He’ll have a familiar runner behind him in Nichols — with holdovers Luke Rupp and Quinn returning to block — but a lot of fresh faces after that as the Tide lost six all-stars to graduation. Defensively, Columbia must replace a linebacker who piled up 140 tackles last year. Mathias is hoping the D-line, spearheaded by Binder, can crash a lot of backfields.

CRYSTAL BALL

n A couple of years removed from a section title for the Tide, who continue to fine-tune and search for the right mix, as Columbia will likely field the smallest roster in the L-L this fall. The loss of some athletic, big-play receivers will sting and could lead to more time-consuming, grind-it-out drives. Doing the little things — blocking and tackling, taking care of the ball, cutting down on penalties, forcing turnovers — will be paramount for this crew, especially until the new playmakers get up to cruising altitude.

BERKS CATHOLIC SAINTS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 3A.

n Head coach: Dave Stahler (first season).

n Base offense: Spread Wing-T.

n Base defense: 4-2-5.

n 2023 results: 5-6 (3-4 Section Four).

n Key players returning: OG-DE Eric Bennethum, RB-LB Aidan Curley, WR Scott Duffy, RB-DB Bryce Gumby, TE-DE Jackson Kozik, OG-DT Palmer Reber, RB-LB Nate Rose, QB Zach Suski, WR-DB Devyn Sutton.

OUTLOOK

n It’s a new era of Saints football after longtime coach Rick Keeley retired after 38 years and 280 victories following last season — a season that ended with

BC winning its second straight Eastern Conference 3A championship. Enter Stahler, Keeley’s longtime lieutenant, who inherits a squad that must replace the QB, some backfield playmakers and some O-line brutes. Gumby returns to stabilize the backfield and do damage in the return game. Suski has taken ample varsity snaps. There are also some holdover trench guys to anchor the line. Stahler said he really likes his receivers and that the Saints could go a little more Spread this time around.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Basically an entirely new schedule for the Saints, who come marching into Section Five this fall. BC has eight new opponents on its slate, so it will be a new challenge pretty much on a weekly basis. It will also give this new-look crew some time to congeal and for the new coach to put his fingerprints on the program.

HAMBURG HAWKS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 4A (up from 3A).

n Head coach: Matt Hoffert (third season, 15-8).

n Base offense: Zone/Spread.

n Base defense: 4-2-5.

n 2023 results: 6-5 (3-4 Section Five).

n Key players returning: K Eli Blatt, WR-DB Daniel Brady, RB-DB Blaise Ernst, WR-DB Ethan Horvath, OG-LB Logan Monroe, RB-LB Leland Moore, RB-DB Misael Oviedo, OT-DE Astian Reppert, QB Tyler Shuey, WR-DB Ty Werley.

OUTLOOK

n Three straight winning seasons and a trio of playoff trips in a row for Hamburg, which took the Eastern Conference route last fall for another postseason appearance, keeping the positive vibes flowing on Hawk Hill. The troops are here for another playoff push, spearheaded by Shuey, who passed for 2,762 yards last fall. He’ll have plenty of flank targets at his disposal, like Brady, Horvath and Werley, who are all vet receivers. Solid backfield includes Ernst — coming off a breakout freshman campaign — Oviedo and Moore, who have all logged ample varsity carries. A little wet behind the ears up front — Reppert and Monroe will anchor the O-line — but skill-kid wise, Hamburg is way ahead of the curve.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Once the newbie trench guys get caught up to speed, Hamburg is going to be a tough out. The Hawks aren’t shy about going up top — Shuey went 170-for-304 with 25 TDs in 2023 — and they can also go ground-and-pound with that trio of backs. Stop people. Hope the new line comes together quickly. Finish drives. Do that, and Hamburg, which goes up to Class 4A this fall, will be in the lead pack at the tape. Matt Hoffert

CAPSULES BY JEFF REINHART

Columbia quarterback Cameron McClair drops back to pass against Lancaster Catholic on Sept. 15, 2023.

ANDY BLACKBURN | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Matt Gingrich

Dave Stahler

L-L SECTION FIVE: TEAM BY TEAM

KUTZTOWN COUGARS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 3A.

n Head coach: Larry Chester (11th season, 29-68).

n Base offense: Power-T.

n Base defense: 3-5.

n 2023 results: 3-7 (2-5 Section Five).

n Key players returning:

RB-LB Brenden Ackley,

RB-DB David Bates, OG-LB Gavin Hallock, QB-DB Colten Mathias, OGDE Alex Reyes, RB-LB Mason Sherry, RB-DB Jayden Swoyer, TE-LB James Undercuffler, OT-DT Tyler Wicke.

OUTLOOK

n Kutztown continues to turn the corner, and the Cougars will be ahead of the curve with a solid nucleus returning in the backfield. Ackley, a 1,000-yard rusher last fall, Sherry and Swoyer are all back to spark the Power-T. Mathias returns to orchestrate the O, and three O-line people-movers — Hallock, Reyes and Wicke — return, plus Undercuffler is a two-way weapon. Now Kutztown needs its newbies to fit in and continue the maturation process. This program has come a long way in a short time.

CRYSTAL BALL

n More movement in the right direction for the Cougars, who won’t be shy about running the rock and controlling the line of scrimmage. You better bring your A-game in the tackling department when Kutztown comes calling. Enough horses to be there down the stretch? We shall see. But the Cougars will have everyone’s strict attention.

LANCASTER CATHOLIC CRUSADERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 2A (down from 3A).

n Head coach: Chris Maiorino (fifth season, 25-16).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 4-4.

n 2023 results: 9-2 (6-1 Section Five).

n Key players returning:

TE-DE Colton Baddick, OGDT Sebastian Baker, OG-DE Gabe Cherasaro, TE-LB Zach Dresch, WR-DB Colton Hegener, OT-LB Anthony Leone, OT-DE Trenton Moore, WR-LB Andrew Schwanke, QB David Stefanow, C-DT Ben Tongel, WR-DB Charlie Warren, RB-DB Brandon Way.

OUTLOOK

n Some big holes to spackle, but still plenty to like for the Crusaders, who are coming off

SCHUYLKILL VALLEY PANTHERS

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 3A.

n Head coach: Bruce Harbach (fourth season, 17-17).

n Base offense: Spread.

n Base defense: 4-4.

n 2023 results: 9-3 (6-1 Section Five).

n Key players

Bruce Harbach

returning: RB-LB Logan Cammauf, WR-LB Kowen Gerner, RB-WR-DB Cooper Hohenadel, OG Gabe Kier, WRDB John Kowalski, WR-DB Dillon Lackner, QB Logan Nawrocki, OT-DT Noah Sonon, WR-TELB Luke Spotts, K-P Reese Wamsher.

OUTLOOK

n There is a lot to like in Leesport, where the Panthers should be thinking bigger after sharing Section Five gold and winning a district playoff game for the first time in program history in 2023. Plenty of talent is back, including seven all-stars. That includes 2,000yard passer Nawrocki, 900yard receiver Gerner, rugged two-way playmaker Spotts, and dual-threats like Cammauf, Hohenadel and Lackner. Wamsher should also be one of the league’s top specialists. You name it, SV has it covered.

CRYSTAL BALL

consecutive section titles. Offense should be in good shape with Stefanow returning to steer the ship. He’ll have reliable targets in Warren and Dresch. Way — a first-team all-star last fall at offensive athlete, DB and return man — can beat you with his speed out of the backfield and in special teams. He’ll also spark the defense. Way will join holdovers Warren and Hegener in the secondary, and Dresch is a hit-machine linebacker. Question mark will be the line of scrimmage as Catholic dips down to Class 2A this fall.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Still plenty in the tank for the Crusaders to make a serious run at three section crowns in a row. It will be a crowded race, but Catholic has the weaponry to separate itself from the pack — especially if the line guys win the battles up front. Some heavy grad losses, yes. But the Crusaders have the goods to keep pace with the leaders into late October.

n Insert bull’s-eye here. We’ll go ahead and stitch the favorite tag on the Panthers, who return a throng of vet playmakers. It has

THE PLAYBOOK

n PIAA: Class 3A.

n Head coach: Mike Choi (eighth season, 22-48).

n Base offense: Wing-T.

n Base defense: 4-4.

n 2023 results: 2-8 (1-6 Section Five).

n Key players returning: C-LB Andrew Blank, RB-DB Cayden Carter, C-DT Jeremiah Garber, OT Edgar Gonzalez, TE-LB Adam Shultz, QB Anthony Stoltzfus, RB-LB Drew Tibbins, RB-DB Trevor Vollmer.

OUTLOOK

n Some good building blocks in Braves’ camp, including all-star road-grader Garber up front, and two-way terror Tibbins, a top tackler and between-thetackles runner, due back. More good news: Stoltzfus returns to pilot the Wing-T, Vollmer is another backfield vet, and PV has some depth and size in the line department. Hunch is that the Braves will give everyone migraine headaches this time around.

CRYSTAL BALL

n Can PV break out and keep pace with the lead pack come October? Time will tell. But if the Braves can get off to a quick start in the nonleague portion, build some mo and perhaps spring an early section victory … you never know. PV will compete. Do not sleep on this

bunch. They’ll make you earn every inch until the bitter end.

taken Harbach just three years to completely change the culture and get SV’s football program chugging full speed ahead. All eyes will be on his Panthers this fall.

Larry Chester

Mike Choi

Chris Maiorino

Lancaster Catholic’s Brandon Way runs against Delone Catholic on Sept. 1, 2023.

ANDY BLACKBURN | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

PAST LANCASTER-LEBANON LEAGUE SECTION CHAMPIONS

Note: 2022 was the first year of the LL-Berks Football merger 2023

n Section One: Manheim Township

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Ephrata, Garden Spot, Twin Valley

n Section Four: Cocalico

n Section Five: Annville-Cleona, Lancaster Catholic, Schuylkill Valley 2022

n Section One: Hempfield

n Section Two: Exeter

n Section Three: Solanco

n Section Four: Wyomissing:

n Section Five: Lancaster Catholic 2021

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Cocalico, Manheim Central, Warwick

n Section Three: LampeterStrasburg

n Section Four: Columbia 2020

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Warwick

n Section Three: Lampeter-Strasburg

n Section Four: Elco 2019

n Section One: Manheim Township

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic 2018

n Section One: Manheim Township, Warwick, Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic 2017

n Section One: Manheim Township

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Northern Lebanon 2016

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Annville-Cleona, Lancaster Catholic 2015

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: LampeterStrasburg, Manheim Central, Solanco

n Section Three: Northern Lebanon

2014

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: LampeterStrasburg

n Section Three: Northern Lebanon 2013

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Donegal 2012

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Cocalico

n Section Three: Garden Spot 2011

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Lampeter-Strasburg

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic 2010

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Lampeter-Strasburg

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic 2009

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic 2008

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic 2007

n Section One: Manheim Township

n Section Two: Elizabethtown, Solanco

n Section Three: LampeterStrasburg, Lancaster Catholic 2006

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Conestoga Valley

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic 2005

n Section One: Hempfield, Manheim Township

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Lancaster Catholic

2004

Section One: Wilson

Section Two: Manheim Central

Section Three: Annville-Cleona 2003

n Section One: McCaskey, Reading

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Lampeter-Strasburg 2002

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Cocalico, Columbia, Lampeter-Strasburg 2001

n Section One: Cedar Crest, McCaskey

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Columbia 2000

n Section One: Cedar Crest, Reading, Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Cocalico, Elco 1999

n Section One: Cedar Crest

n Section Two: Wilson

n Section Three: Donegal 1998

n Section One: Hempfield, Reading

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Columbia, Donegal, Lancaster Catholic 1997

n Section One: Wilson, Warwick

n Section Two: Cedar Crest, Conestoga Valley

n Section Three: Cocalico 1996

n Section One: Governor Mifflin, Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Cocalico 1995

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Cocalico 1994

n Section One: Hempfield

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Cocalico

1993

Section One: Hempfield, Wilson

Section Two: Manheim Central

Section Three: Garden Spot 1992

Section One: Hempfield, Reading, Wilson

Section Two: Manheim Central

Section Three: Cocalico 1991

n Section One: McCaskey

n Section Two: Conestoga Valley, Solanco

n Section Three: Northern Lebanon

1990

n Section One: McCaskey

n Section Two: Solanco

n Section Three: Annville-Cleona 1989

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Donegal

1988

n Section One: McCaskey

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Columbia 1987

n Section One: Hempfield, Wilson

n Section Two: Elizabethtown, Ephrata

n Section Three: Donegal

1986

n Section One: Cedar Crest, McCaskey

n Section Two: Elizabethtown

n Section Three: Northern Lebanon 1985

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Conestoga Valley

n Section Three: Cocalico, Donegal 1984

n Section One: Hempfield, McCaskey

n Section Two: Conestoga Valley, Penn Manor

n Section Three: Cocalico 1983

n Section One: McCaskey

n Section Two: Conestoga Valley

n Section Three: Annville-Cleona

1982

n Section One: Manheim Township, McCaskey

n Section Two: Conestoga Valley, Manheim Central

n Section Three: Garden Spot, Lebanon Catholic 1981

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Conestoga Valley

n Section Three: Cocalico 1980

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Garden Spot 1979

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Warwick

n Section Three: Annville-Celona, Elco, Garden Spot 1978

n Section One: Wilson

n Section Two: Warwick

n Section Three: Donegal 1977

n Section One: Manheim Township

n Section Two: Warwick

n Section Three: Lebanon Catholic 1976

n Section One: Manheim Township

n Section Two: Elizabethtown

n Section Three: Cocalico, Elco 1975

n Section One: Cedar Crest

n Section Two: Manheim Central

n Section Three: Annville-Cleona, Elco

1974

n Section One: Conestoga Valley

n Section Two: Penn Manor 1973

n Section One: Manheim Township

n Section Two: Elco, Manheim Central

1972

n Section One: Cedar Crest, Conestoga Valley

n Section Two: Annville-Cleona