Here are the rankings after Week 2 powered by Gaughan Auto Store:
BIG SCHOOL
- North Pocono Trojans (2-0), defeated Pittston Area 34-21 (Last week: 1)
North Pocono was challenged this week, but unlike the past couple seasons, they found a way to win a close game against a quality opponent. The Trojans were able to run the ball with backup running back Jayden Taylor and athlete Cole West, who lined up in the Wildcat at quarterback. Should be able to get the backups lots of action this week
Next up: vs. Wyoming Valley West (0-2) – Friday - Valley View Cougars (2-0), defeated Crestwood 24-13 (Last week: 2)
A tough road win for a very young and inexperienced team will go a long way for Valley View this season. It was also was a victory over another Class 4A team which will help with disrict seeding down the road. The defense has been very good so far. It will be another challenge this week against a much better offense than the Cougars saw the first two weeks,
Next up: vs. Wilkes-Barre (1-1) (Watch on NPF) – Friday - Abington Heights Comets (2-0), defeated West Scranton 37-10 (Last week: 3)
The Comets cruised to an expected easy win, but it won’t be necessarily that way in Week 3. The offensive line continues to hold up and Gavin Anders shows why he is one of the best receivers in the LFC. Abington has to be careful, because they are facing an opponent who will be desperate on Saturday.
Next up: vs. Dallas (0-2) (Listen on NPF) – Saturday - Wilkes-Barre Wolfpack (1-1), defeated Stroudsburg 48-42 (OT) (Last week: 4)
A gutsy win for the Wolfpack who usually find a way to lose games like this. The offense woke up after a lackadasical performance Week 1. Davon Underwood is tough to defend and Jake Howe cut down on the turnovers which will give them a good chance to go on the road this week and pull an out a win.
Next up: vs. Stroudsburg (1-0) (Watch on NPF) – Friday - Delaware Valley Warriors (0-2), lost to Jersey Shore 49-42 (Last week: 5)
We are still trying to figure out Delaware Valley. No doubt the schedule is tough the first three weeks, but the defense has been spotty. The offense finally got going last week, but it was too late as they dug themselves a hole. We are standing by that the Warriors are still one of the best teams in District 2.
Next up: at Central York (2-0) (Listen on NPF) – Friday - Pittston Area Patriots (1-1), lost to North Pocono 34-21 (Last week: 6)
Moral victories are not accepted by most coaches, but we aren’t coaches. Give credit to Patriots for competing with the top ranked team in the area and not backing down. The defense was a little shaky, but this loss should give Pittston some confidence.
Next up: at Nanticoke (0-2) (Listen on NPF) – Friday
SMALL SCHOOL
- Wyoming Area Warriors (2-0), defeated Dallas 27-20 (Last week: 1)
One thing about Wyoming Area this season is they are finding ways to win close games which they did they did early last season as well. That’s a sign of a team with a championship mentality. The Warriors have some offensive firepower and the defense always swarms to the football and makes plays. They justified their ranking this past week with a huge road win.
Next up: vs. Western Wayne (1-1) (Watch on NPF) – Friday - Lackawanna Trail Lions (2-0), defeated Western Wayne 35-3 (Last week: 2)
The defense made adjustments from last week and looked much better. The offense continues to be the Isaac Ryon Show. But don’t underestimate how good the offensive line is. It will win the battle up front most weeks although this Friday will be a challene against a team with experience in the trenches.
Next up: at Berwick (2-0) (Listen on NPF) – Friday - Berwick Bulldogs (2-0), defeated Mid Valley 42-0 (Last week: 4)
Berwick’s defense has been impressive the first two weeks only giving up one touchdown. We know the offense will ride Ty’Meere Wilkerson, but there are other play makers who won’t get the headlines, but will make plays. The Dawgs look to be back and a win this week will solidify that statement.
Next up: vs. Lackawanna Trail (2-0) (Listen on NPF) – Friday - Lakeland Chiefs (2-0), defeated Holy Cross 53-6 (Last week: 5)
The Chiefs have scored 105 points the first two games to lead District 2 by a large margin. Granted the strength of schedule is questionable, but they will answer a lot of questions this week. It’s not that they are so good on offense, but they have multiple options to go to led by QB David Naniewicz. They will insert themselves as the favorite in Class 2A with a road win this Friday in Taylor.
Next up: at Riverside (2-0) – Friday - Riverside Vikings (2-0), defeated Hanover Area 34-31 (Last week: 6)
Another team that has a winning pedigree and finds ways to win games. They had to hold on this time around, but the Vikings remain the top dog until someone knocks them down. Look for a good one this weekend as this could be a preview of a district playoff game.
Next up: vs. Lakeland (2-0) – Friday - Scranton Prep Cavaliers (0-2), lost to Loyola (MD) 45-13 (Last week: 3)
Like Delaware Valley, the Prep program is usually one of the best teams in District 2. However, there are some suspicion whether the Cavs have taken a step back. Yes, they have played two quality opponents the first two weeks, but the eye test says they don’t look the same. Just don’t forget they will be a different team when Will McPartland comes back, but will that be enough?
Next up: at Canisius (NY) – Saturday
