Wednesday, August 27, 2003

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

TEAM TO BEAT

North Hills -- The Indians would have been a contender under any circumstance, but the addition of running back Andrew Johnson, a transfer from Central Catholic, pushes this team up a notch. He gives Coach Jack McCurry a breakaway threat the Indians haven't had. Senior Dave D'Alessandro (6-3, 260) is one of the conference's best linemen. Senior linemen Mike Czerwien (5-10, 220) and Mike Schmitt (6-1, 275) and senior linebacker Jake Barzen (6-2, 200) are two other top returners. The Indians might start as many as five sophomores, including Ryan Lehmeier (5-11, 200) at quarterback. "We lost our best player from last year in [linebacker] Bill Lamb. There's no one in the wings who can do what he did," McCurry said. "So we still have a lot of holes to fill."

CONTENDERS

North Allegheny -- "We should have a terrific defensive team," said Coach Jim Rankin. Defensive lineman Chris Rogers (6-3, 242) is a Michigan recruit. Nose guard Wade Walowich, linebacker Josh Zunic and offensive lineman Randy Burns also are back.

Seneca Valley -- Senior linebacker Tony DeRiggi (6-2, 240) was an all-conference selection last year. Senior tackle-linebacker Bryan Borghi (6-3, 230) and senior tight end-linebacker Dan Reale (6-5, 230) are other top returners.

THE OTHERS

Butler -- Could be the sleeper of the conference. Linebacker Tyrell Sales (6-3, 235) is a Penn State recruit. Coach Garry Cathell also has a huge offensive line.

Mt. Lebanon -- Senior quarterback Andy Goff (6-0, 175) and senior lineman Doug Slavonic (6-5, 230) might lead the Blue Devils to the playoffs. Slavonic is getting interest from Division I teams.

Shaler -- With 13 returning starters, including senior quarterback Lou Massimiani (6-0, 180), the Titans should improve from 1-9.

Bethel Park -- The Black Hawks are young and inexperienced, but senior Erik Yonish (5-10, 175) returns at QB-DB.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tony DeRiggi, Seneca Valley (TE-LB, 6-2, 240, Sr.); Andrew Johnson, North Hills (RB-DB, 5-11, 195, Sr.); Chris Rogers, North Allegheny (TE-DL-LB, 6-3, 242, Sr.); Tyrell Sales, Butler (TE-LB, 6-3, 235, Sr.); Erik Yonish, Bethel Park (QB-DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.).

GAME OF THE YEAR

North Allegheny at North Hills, Oct. 24.

BEST BANDS

North Hills, Seneca Valley.

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