Flying back from a tough week
It's a good thing I'm an endangered species because after my effort last week, I may not have survived otherwise.
I went a very un-Scoop-like 6-5, leading many to ponder if my pick calling duties should be turned over to Tuffy the Tornado.
But, I have survived to pick another day.
On to the picks (and I promise I won't forget Seneca Valley this week, although had I remembered I would have been 6-6.)
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Karns City 32, Moniteau 16 — The Warriors bounced back last week with an inspired effort and win over Brookville.Meanwhile Karns City dominated Clarion in the second half in its own inspired triumph.This is Karns City-Moniteau week. Players on both teams are already frothing at the mouth to get on the field for this one.I have a feeling the team that keeps its emotions in check the best will win this one.Slowing down Moniteau running back James Shope wouldn't hurt, either.•
North Allegheny 34, Butler 6 — The Golden Tornado have four two-way starters out. So, if my math skills are better than my picking skills, that really means they have eight starters out ... against powerhouse North Allegheny.Not a good combo. Sort of like the Tennessee Titans and snow, Donovan McNabb and no timeouts or Solomon Wilcots and a microphone.•
Pine-Richland 22, Seneca Valley 16 — The Raiders are in a playoff hunt.So is Pine-Richland. The Rams will take a step closer.•
Knoch 26, Highlands 6 — Break up the Knights. It's hard to believe this team was 0-5 at one point and heading nowhere. Two weeks later, all Knoch needs is a win over Highlands and they are playoff bound.Make those postseason reservations.•
Mars 27, Indiana 11 — Two words: Austin Miele.•
Freeport 33, Deer Lakes 8 — Two words (well, a number and a word): 500 wins.The Yellowjackets will notch the 500th win in program history if they can conquer Deer Lakes.Bet on it.Freeport is for real•
Punxsutawney 41, Union 12 — The Chucks are too much for potent Union.•
Redbank Valley 46, A-C Valley 8 — In the battle of the Valleys, pick Redbank.•
Grove City 25, Meadville 11 — The Eagles could take a giant step toward a region title with a win. Besides, I've always loved their nickname.•
Slippery Rock 26, Youngstown Chaney 11 — The Rockets need this victory. The tragic events of last week still weigh heavily on Slippery Rock.•
Kittanning 18, Summit Academy 15 — The Knights have won two straight, thanks to a defense that is scary good at times.Summit will give Kittanning a fight, but will fall short.Scoop is 61-18 this season. Tuffy the Tornado's record is unknown.