Wednesday, August 27, 2003

By Mike White and Ken Mrazik, Post-Gazette Sports Writers

TEAM TO BEAT

Perry -- The Commodores have not lost to a City League team since 1999, and last year's team did not allow a point in 11 City games. This year's team isn't as strong, but the Commodores still are a prohibitive favorite to win their fourth championship in a row. Senior quarterback Scott Knapp (6-3, 205) completed 81 of 144 for 1,882 yards and 30 touchdowns last season. Senior running back Gary Lee (5-10, 205) rushed for 1,622 yards on 174 attempts. Senior linebacker Randy Williams (6-1, 225) was an all-City selection.

CONTENDERS

Peabody -- The Highlanders have a number of returning starters from last year's team that lost to Brashear, 7-6, in the semifinals. Senior lineman-linebacker Corey Davis (6-3, 255) is a Pitt recruit who has been a starter since his freshman year.

Brashear -- Seniors Tywone Bray (6-0, 175) and Marc Cox (6-2, 180) were the team's top receivers a year ago. Throw in a number of other returning starters on offense and defense, and the Bulls are a definite playoff possibility.

THE OTHERS

Schenley -- The Spartans have six returning starters and Coach Jim Trent said, "We have good skill positions players, but we need to fill holes on the offensive line."

Oliver -- Tight end-defensive end John Donaldson (6-3, 210), receiver-defensive back Jason Hale (5-10, 160), fullback-defensive end Delvin Gross (5-10, 220) and quarterback-defensive back Jamon Steele (6-1, 190) are four senior returning starters who give the Bears hope of improving on last year's 3-6 record.

Langley -- The Mustangs feature senior fullback-linebacker Dave Welsh (6-0, 230), who rushed for 487 yards last season.

South -- Thirty-seven players came out for the team, the most in recent years. Senior Antoine Gaines (5-10, 170) has been moved from halfback to quarterback.

Carrick -- The Raiders are a team to watch because every starter returns, including all-City offensive lineman Jon Grainger (6-2, 265).

Allderdice -- The experience of senior quarterback Jason Mesko (5-11, 195), a starter since his freshman year, could help the Dragons surprise some teams.

Westinghouse -- Senior receiver Milton Joyner (5-10, 160) and senior tight end-defensive end Aaron Strader (6-1, 185) are the only returning starters for second-year coach Daryl Moore.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Corey Davis, Peabody (OL-DL-LB, 6-3, 255, Sr.); Jon Grainger, Carrick (OL-DL, 6-2, 265, Sr.); Scott Knapp, Perry (QB, 6-3, 205, Sr.); Gary Lee, Perry (RB, 5-10, 205, Sr.); Jason Mesko, Allderdice (QB, 5-11, 195, Sr.).

GAME OF THE YEAR

Perry vs. Peabody, Sept. 19 at Cupples Stadium.

BEST BAND

Schenley.

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