HS football picks: Will this be another District 12 doomsday?

http://blogs.mcall.com/groller/

FROM KEITH GROLLER

Last Dec. 1, a promising Saturday just like this one, Pen Argyl was pasted by Imhotep Charter 54-7 in Slatington in the state quarterfinals , while about 80 miles away at Northeast High School in Philadelphia, Parkland was throttled by La Salle 28-7.

Six days later, Central Catholic was routed by Archbishop Wood, 36-6.

Imhotep, La Salle and Archbishop Wood are all Philadelphia teams from District 12 and District 12's entrance into the PIAA playoffs has certainly proven to be problematic for our teams.

Can that scenario change today?

Parkland offers the most complete team in our area this season with multiple weapons on offense, a rugged offensive line and a fast-closing defense.

It's hard to believe that the Trojans can't match up with St. Joe's Prep.

Catasauqua, on the other hand, features the area's best quarterback in my opinion in Zack Bradley and has several explosive weapons.

It's hard to believe Catty won't at least score and score plenty against Imhotep, The big question is can the Roughies stop them?

Parkland and Catty are both well-coached teams with staffs featuring some of the best minds we have in football.

Again, with these kids and these coaches, we have figure to have a chance to compete against what many people consider to be all-star teams from the Philadelphia area.

How will it turn out today? Well, I am optimistic, but I was optimistic last year, too.

I think Parkland breaks through and ends a four-year losing streak for our 4A teams against District 12.

Parkland becomes the first District 11 4A team since Liberty in its state championship year of 2008 to reach the state semifinals with a 34-21 win over St. Joe's Prep. Neshaminy next week figures to be a handful for the Trojans, but right now I am sure they'd love to have to worry about that game.

Catty has the offense that can strike for big plays against any high school team. They will score. But it will be enough? The Roughies have a chance to pull a surprise that will be talked about for decades.

They will give it a great shot, there's no doubt about that.

But I see them coming up just short.

Imhotep 42, Catasauqua 28.

A 3-1 record on Thanksgving Day leaves me at 200-55 for the season. Here's hoping I am wrong on the Roughies score today. Enjoy the games.