Wednesday, August 27, 2003

By Paul Zeise and Ken Mrazik, Post-Gazette Sports Writers

TEAM TO BEAT

Rochester -- The Rams lost a number of key players from last year's team and won't have much depth or experience. All that means, however, is the team might struggle a bit early until it finds its identity. By the time the playoffs arrive, the Rams should be ready to make a run at its fourth consecutive WPIAL Class A title. Senior running back Nate Waldron (1,640 yards rushing, 28 TDs) is one of the best in the WPIAL as is defensive end Nate Tucker (6-5, 235). The Rams will have some time to come together as they don't face their top competition -- Farrell and Monaca -- until the end of the season.

CONTENDERS

Monaca -- The Indians are young but, as usual, are tough and talented. Running backs Kevin Miller and Chris D'Antonio (1,300 combined rushing yards) return to lead an offense that is always among the top rushing offenses in Class A.

Farrell -- Talent is never in short supply at Farrell, but chemistry sometimes is. If the Steelers come together, they are a legitimate threat to win the WPIAL and PIAA titles. Offense is led by big-play running back Quentin Odem (1,315 total yards, 16 TDs last year) while all-conference linebacker Aubrey Chambers leads the defense.

THE OTHERS

Avonworth -- Year three of Jim Wehner's rebuilding project could be a big one as the Antelopes have 21 seniors and 16 returning starters. They are a sleeper to win the conference.

Cornell -- Like Avonworth, the Raiders are poised to take a big step forward this season as they return at least one letterman at every position.

South Side Beaver -- The Rams return their three two receivers in seniors Kyle Heizler (18 receptions, 378 yards) and tight end Tyler Mercer (19, 238).

Western Beaver -- The Golden Beavers will build attack around junior running back Warren Taylor (159 rushes, 875 yards), who was the team's leading rusher a year ago.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Nate Tucker, Rochester (TE-DE, 6-5, 235, Sr.); Nate Waldron, Rochester (RB-LB, 6-0, 190, Sr. ); Quentin Odem, Farrell (RB-DB, 6-0, 175, Jr. ); Aubrey Chambers, Farrell (RB-LB, 6-0, 185, Jr.); Chris D'Antonio, Monaca (RB-DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.).

GAME OF THE YEAR

Farrell at Rochester, Oct. 17.

BEST BANDS

Avonworth, Rochester.

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