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Hazleton PPG--17, PPA--38
Hazleton notes: Hazleton is not an area team, but this is the only series featuring an area team (Williamsport) in which both have played each season during the 2000s. The Cougars have lost eight straight games going back to last year and its lone win came against West Scranton, which scored 24 consecutive second half points a week ago, turning a three-point deficit into a 38-17 win. The Cougars suffered a big blow when quarterback JJ Lantigua was injured. The mobile threat had scored on a 39-yard touchdown run earlier in the game. Running back Xavier Heck is a workhorse and ran for 152 yards and a touchdown, showing both power and burst. He came as close as one can to 1,000 yards without getting it last year, finishing with 999 and six touchdowns. He also ran for 120 yards against Wilkes-Barre in the district semifinals. Derek Radzwich gives Hazleton a special teams weapon and kicked a 27-yard field goal which gave Hazleton a 17-14 lead last week.
Hazleton player to watch--Xavier Heck: With the uncertainty at quarterback, look for Heck to again carry a big load. Heck ran for 95 yards against Williamsport in last year's 28-7 Millionaire victory. Don't be surprised if Hazleton also tries getting him involved in the passing game since Williamsport struggled there last week.
Williamsport PPG--41, PPA--21; YPG--528, YPA--390
Williamsport notes: Williamsport debuts its new stadium tonight and the facilities are state of the art, creating added buzz for tonight's game. Following a slow start last week, Williamsport came alive and controlled the second half, defeating Wyoming Valley West, 41-21 in last week's opener. That was a big win and tonight is a key game as the District 2-4 Class AAAAAA field now has six teams, with the addition of Valley West and West Scranton. The last two years, it was a four-team field and all four qualified, but now two teams will be left sitting at home come November. Quarterback Tevin Williams totaled 410 yards and four touchdowns against Valley West. Trey Damschroder totaled 136 yards, scoring as both a receiver and rusher. The defense contained the run, but struggled against the pass, allowing 251 yards. The Millionaires trailed 7-3 late in the first half before scoring 38 points in the game's final 25 minutes. The offensive line came together as the game progressed and Williamsport started scoring at will. Tight end Kason Ulmer caught five passes and had a touchdown reception called back. Linebacker Anthony Manley and defensive end Cordoza Minor help spark a defense which returns most of last year's starters. Williamsport has reached consecutive district finals, winning the 2024 crown.
Williamsport player to watch--Za'Mire Hopkins: Playing a lot as a freshman at the 6A level says a lot, so Hopkins first game could be a sign of exciting times to come. Hopkins ran for 58 yards on 14 carries; the coaches showing trust in the youngster as he led the team in carries. If Hopkins continues progressing an already dangerous offense could really hit is stride.
Outlook: Williamsport can ill-afford a letdown since this is a big game in terms of playoff rankings. The Millionaires look like they have an advantage on paper, but games are not won on paper, so beware.
By CHRIS MASSE