Wednesday, August 27, 2003

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

TEAM TO BEAT

Greensburg Salem -- With five starters back on offense and seven on defense, the Lions seem ready to roar. Senior running back Brandon Sticca (5-10, 160) rushed for 797 yards last season and also caught nine passes. If Coach George Kemerer can get the quarterback situation squared away, the offense should be strong. Three players are vying for the starting job. Leading the way on defense are senior linebacker Cory Bush (5-10, 200), senior lineman Steve DeMatteo (6-0, 210) and junior lineman Andrew Hale (6-2, 210).

CONTENDERS

Belle Vernon -- The Leopards lost some key offensive players to graduation, but seven starters return from a defense that had four shutouts a year ago. Linebacker Anthony Guerra (6-3, 235) is one of the top defensive players.

Uniontown -- A fourth consecutive playoff appearance is possible for the Raiders. Senior running back Billy McLee (6-1, 245) is one of the main reasons for the optimism after rushing for 834 yards last season.

THE OTHERS

Laurel Highlands -- Corey Nesser is only 5-8, 165 pounds, but he's gigantic for the Mustangs, rushing for 676 yards last season. "We are expecting to compete for a playoff position and be a contender for the conference championship," said Coach Scott Knee.

Derry -- With six two-way starters, the Trojans are a sleeper. Senior quarterback Dewey Schmitt (6-3, 205) returns to run an offense that was held to one touchdown or less five times last season.

Mount Pleasant -- The Vikings' only two wins last year came in the final two games. Maybe they have some momentum. Linebacker Scott Szelong (6-2, 225) led the team in tackles as a sophomore.

Yough -- These Cougars are some young cats. They started two freshmen and four sophomores in the first scrimmage. "We're going to take our lumps, but I'm pretty excited about our prospects for the future," said Coach Rich Bowen.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Billy McLee, Uniontown (RB-LB, 6-1, 245, Sr.); Corey Nesser, Laurel Highlands (5-8, 165, Sr.); Dewey Schmitt, Derry (QB-LB, 6-3, 205, Sr.); J.T. Stefanski, Laurel Highlands (6-5, 255, OT-DE); Brandon Sticca, Greensburg Salem (RB-DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.).

GAME OF THE YEAR

Greensburg Salem at Belle Vernon, Oct. 3.

BEST BANDS

Mount Pleasant, Greensburg Salem.

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