2015 PFN State Rankings – Class AAA Preseason
Tagged under: Rankings
Pa Football News | August 26, 2015
Here are the preseason rankings for Class AAA. Archbishop Wood is the defending champion.
(2014 record in parenthesis)
1. Imhotep Charter (12-2) – District 12
Talent is not an issue for the Panthers. With several players eventually heading to Division 1 colleges including TE Naseir Upshur and RB Tyliek Raynor, they will win a lot of games, but can they get past the defending champs. On paper, it looks possible which is why they get the top spot in the preseason.
2. Archbishop Wood (14-1) – District 12
Wood has three state championships now and with QB Anthony Russo back for his senior season, a fourth is probably. Obviously, they have to get out of southeastern PA which is always a challenge, but the Vikings have horses to continue to be a factor again.
3. Bishop McDevitt (14-1) – District 3
Another team that is always in the mix has to replace a lot of offense because of graduation. However, the Crusaders have talent including new QB Tayvon Bowers. If he can get the ball to Kobay White on a regular basis, the offense will be just fine. Overall, they have 15 starters returning so the rest of the team will be solid
4. Thomas Jefferson (11-1) – District 7
The Jaguars are always big and always have skill players that make plays. This year, Quinton Hill will take over as the feature back and there will be a buzz. It won’t be easy, but TJ has a good chance to get to back on top of Class AAA in the WPIAL.
5. Somerset (14-2) – District 5
What a run for Bob Landis and the Golden Eagles. An appearance in the state semifinals in Class AAA is a major accomplishment and they will be in the mix again in 2015. QB Dylan Barnes returns as well as 13 other starters. Don’t underestimate what this program can do.
6. Cathedral Prep (11-1) – District 10
The Ramblers are still in shock after a loss in District 10 championship game to Conneaut. Prep will be on a mission in 2015 and they have the talent to make a state run with Conneaut still an obstacle on the way. Ta’Nauz Gregory, Matthew Bauer and Sullivan Johnson will pace the defense. The offense will have to replace some good skill players but the Ramblers reload, not rebuild.
7. Bethlehem Catholic (12-2) – District 11
The two-time District 11 champions are ready to take it a step further. The offense will be explosive with the return of QB Julian Spigner but also the Golden Hawks received an influx of talent from transfers from the now-closed Pius X including WR Nate Stewart. Becahi is still going to have to improve on defense to contend with the big boys in Class AAA, but they have some players in place that might make that happen.
8. Conneaut (11-2) – District 10
The Eagles have not been around very long, but they are already starting to create some football tradition. Their district championship win over Cathedral Prep probably created a new rivalry. QB Hunter Merritt is back and so is receiver Henry Litwin.
9. Berwick (9-3) – District 2
In what could be legendary coach George Curry’s last hurrah, the Dawgs want to get back on top of District 2 and beyond. The defense brings back plenty of experience and the offense should be big and strong up front. If they find enough play makers, Berwick could send the veteran coach out with a good playoff run.
10. West Allegheny (11-2) – District 7
The Indians are a familiar name when it comes to the WPIAL and championships. West Allegheny might start off slow this year, but Bob Palko’s team will be around in November. Running back Terence Stephens will be the main offensive weapon.
HM: Clearfield (9), Franklin Regional (7), Meadville (10), Montour (7), Saucon Valley (11), Scranton Prep (2), Springfield-Delco (1)
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