Class 1A Western Sub Regional preview: Northern Bedford v Steelton-Highspire

Tagged under: District 3, District 5, News, Playoffs

Billy Splain | November 16, 2023

Steelton-Highspire (12-0) @ Northern Bedford (12-0) (Claysburg-Kimmel HS) – 7:00 pm

They’re not bigger but they do score more points and have more playoff wins under their belt. They have a state record holder at quarterback, division 1 lineman and several other college prospects. The Rollers are loaded and on the hunt for third title in four years. They can throw, they can run and they aren’t afraid to take chances. Alex Erby has plenty of weapons at hand to get the ball to. His main weapon is 6-1, 180 lb senior Durrell Ceasar Jr. He’s hauled in 1,618 yards and 17 tds worth of Erby’s 3,321 yards and 47 td passes. But you also have to look out for 6-1, 175 pound senior Jaeion Perry. He’s got 938 yards and 15 scores to his resume. Running the ball is a mini tank, Ronald Burnette. When needed, Burnette has the power to break a tackle, but he also has a bit of speed. They’ve got a great line led by OHIO commit, 6-4, 275 pound Andrew Erby. Defensively the Rollers can create chaos. Nazier Fuller and Ceasar are a problem for quarterbacks, Andrew Erby and Eugene Green lead a formidable line.

But don’t tell any of that to NBC head coach Garry Black. His team is playoff ready and also has some great players. Eion Snider will bring his 1,700 passing yards and 20 td passes to go along with 600 on the ground and 13 more trips to the paint. He’s a real threat to run with the ball when back in the pocket. Adam Johnson has over 1,000 yards and 17 trips to the paint. Their line is led by 6-4, 270 pound Josiah Bowser and 6-1, 265 pound Brock Beach. Think Steel-High/West Perry. A very similar matchup as far as talent on the field. Defensively the Panthers are a tackle by committee, swarm to the ball group. Johnson plays great in coverage at linebacker. Logan Pepple, Ashton Detterline and Noah Baker also get to the ball. This has the makings of either a track meet or a low scoring affair.

** NOTE: to meet PIAA requirements for hosting, Claysburg installed visiting bleachers that seats 600**

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