Jersey Shore PPG–27, PPA–7; YPG–291, YPA–254

Jersey Shore notes: This is a much younger team than a year ago, but Jersey Shore still looked like a team that can build on its winning tradition, thumping Dallas, 27-7 in its opener. Now the Bulldogs make the 3 ½ hour ride to play another perennial District 2 title contender. This was a battle last year with Jersey Shore winning, 14-10 in the first ever meeting between the two. Despite losing standout defensive end Zeke Sechrist in the preseason to a torn ACL, the defense surged against Dallas. Bo Sechrist set the game’s tone when he returned an early interception to the 1-yard line and set up a touchdown. Talyn Lope made a career-high 10 tackles and formed a strong interior alongside first time sophomore starters Ace Willits and Cayden Cummings. Defensive end Luke Thompson added an interception and Sechrist made 10 tackles. Nolen Pauling excelled in his first start at quarterback, totaling 223 yards and four touchdowns. Carson Watkins caught five passes for an area-best 124 yards and two scores. Carter Rhinehart and Luke Ryan also could figure prominently in the passing game as the season progresses.

Jersey Shore player to watch–Kash Herritt: Making his first start at linebacker, Herritt burst onto the scene and made a team-high 13 tackles. The sophomore played a massive role in slowing the running game and also had two quarterback hurries. Herritt added a tackle for loss and is one of several young players who could have the present and future looking bright at Jersey Shore.

Delaware Valley PPG–24, PPA–51; YPG–360

Delaware Valley notes: The Warriors often play a demanding non-conference schedule and are doing so again this year, opening last week against 4A state title contender McKeesport. The Warriors gained 364 yards but had trouble slowing a powerful offense in the 51-24 loss. Mike Iuzzolino ignites the offense and is coming off a big season in which he ran for 1,501 yards and 22 touchdowns. Limiting the explosive back to 55 yards on 25 carries played a large role in Jersey Shore winning last year’s game. Quarterback Colin McGarvey played well in his first start, completing 14 of 21 passes for 190 yards and a touchdown. He is a mobile threat who also ran for 46 yards on eight carries. Trey Newton caught six passes for 78 yards and a touchdown, while James Dabney reeled in five receptions for 93 yards. Kicker Reagan Decker provides a weapon on special teams and drilled a 40-yard field goal at McKeesport.

Delaware Valley player to watch–Justin Estevez: The team’s top returning tackler, Estevez is coming off an impressive 111-tackle junior season. He also intercepted two passes last season and had 10 tackles against Jersey Shore. The middle linebacker is a quality fullback as well, providing good blocking for Iuzzolino and running for 27 yards and a touchdown on five carries last week.

Outlook: It’s a long way to go, but Delaware Valley has an excellent stadium and is a nice place to watch a football game. The Warriors, however, often are inhospitable on their field, so this will be a tough one for Jersey Shore. It will not be surprising if this game is as close as last year and comes down to a key turnover and/or stand.