Games of the Week

While the majority of football fans in the area (and some outside the area) concentrate on the Walnut Heights at Ampipe, err, Westmont Hilltop at Greater Johnstown game, The Varsity Club is looking at a few matchups with some serious potential to shape the postseason picture.

Bishop McCort (2-0) at Somerset (2-0)
It's been years since Somerset played in a premier matchup, yet that's exactly where the Golden Eagles are in Week 3.
Somerset is off to its best start since 2004, but there's two potential problems. In 2004, Somerset finished with a 3-6 record, and it has not beaten Bishop McCort in 20 tries.
Both teams have played well defensively. McCort has forced six turnovers in two games. Somerset has allowed just 14 points and posted a season-opening shutout versus Central Cambria.

Blairsville (2-0) at Ligonier Valley (2-0)
This game could end up being the Game of the Year in the Heritage Conference, though Penns Manor could play a decisive role in the standings despite an early loss to Northern Cambria.
Ligonier Valley has shredded its first two opponents. Running back Ryan Torrance has already scored six touchdowns in limited duty, while quarterback Scott Fennell is emerging as a dual-threat and a standout on defense.
Blairsville is a big-play offense. The Bobcats are averaging nearly seven yards per carry and 21 yards per completion. They should pose a challenge to a Rams defense that has yet to allow a point.

Portage (1-1) at Shade (1-1)
Both teams have a loss, but the Mustangs and Panthers are two of the top defensive teams in the WestPAC.
Portage must be stinging after a home loss to Berlin in a game where the Mountaineers moved the football a few yards at a time. Even with Berlin's impressive rushing performance, Portage has only allowed 30 points against the two teams expected to contend for a conference title in the Mountaineers and North Star.
Shade surprised some with its win at Conemaugh Township last week, but the Panthers are swarming on defense. Four of the area's top 13 tacklers are on the Panthers' defense.