This bird believes in locals
Not great, but not so bad, either.
My initial effort last week was stained by not having enough faith in locals Seneca Valley and Union, who both captured narrow wins on the road.
Alas, you critics, don't start busting my beak just yet:
NORWINat BUTLER — The Golden Tornado got off on the right foot last week on the road while Norwin took a tough loss at home, missing out on two late scoring opportunities in a 21-17 loss.Now Butler's at home, brimming with confidence and an offense that's only going to get better.
Butler, 32-16.PENN-TRAFFORDat SENECAVALLEY— It was the Raiders who held on at Norwin last week. Seneca Valley has size, talent and a strong running back to go with it.
Seneca Valley, 20-12.
RINGGOLDat KNOCH — Two teams coming off disappointing losses, both with stellar running games.
Ringgold, 15-14.MARSat RIVERSIDE — This could be the game of the night. Both teams won league openers. The Planets can run or pass effectively and Riverside has a killer ground game. I like Mars to win a nail-biter.
Mars, 25-24.HICKORYat KARNSCITY — Yet another game that's tough to call. Atraditional District 9 power hosts a District 10 foe with something to prove. Home field should make the difference.
Karns City, 19-18.ST. MARYS at MONITEAU — Yes, Clarion-Limestone was banged up, but Moniteau is for real. The Warriors will take another step toward showing that Friday.
Moniteau, 28-12.SLIPPERYROCKat EAST— The Rockets head to Erie for a Saturday night game at Veterans Stadium. East has big-play capability with its speed, but a disciplined defense can counter that. It's yet another close one.
Slippery Rock, 12-11.In other games, I like Clarion-Limestone over A-CValley 24-8, Freeport over Kittanning 23-16, Redbank Valley over Union 22-8, Grove City over Corry 22-10 and Summit Academy over Neshannock 19-16.
Last week: 8-3
Season: 8-3
