JACKSON TWP — Replacing a legend isn't easy, but Jim Ward is off to a good start.

After the surprising retirement of George Smith, who won 197 games in 28 seasons as head football coach at McKeesport High, Ward was intrigued by the idea of taking over such a storied program.

The former South Allegheny and Yough High mentor applied and was chosen as the school's coach in February.

Ward's Tigers (2-1) will be in search of their third victory when they host Seneca Valley (2-1) at 7 p.m. Thursday.

Ward's biggest challenge was moving the Tigers from their traditional flexbone offense to a multiple scheme.

"It's been a process," said Ward. "With each week this season, we've improved."

The Tigers pinned a 7-0 setback on Steubenville (Ohio) in the opening week, and crushed Altoona 60-0 and Connellsville 43-0 the last two weeks.

Senior Sam Gooden (5-feet-9, 195 pounds) is a returning starter on offense and now plays tailback. He has rushed for five touchdowns in 2010.

McKeesport's quarterback, 6-4 sophomore Eddie Stockett, has thrown for two touchdowns, while the Tigers' defense has accounted for three touchdowns through three games.

"We didn't have a lot of returning starters, but they're good players," said Ward. "I can't say that I'm surprised at their play so far. I expect a lot out of them."

McKeesport's 4-3 defense is led by tackle Delvon Simmons (6-5, 275) and end Branden Jackson (6-5, 225).

"Both of them have gotten about 15 (college) offers," said Ward. "We're talking offers from Big Ten, Big East and ACC schools."

Seneca Valley will try to get back on track after losing a 48-14 Northern Seven Conference decision to Erie McDowell last week.

"We meet on Saturday to watch the film from the night before and, after that, win or lose, we have to turn the page," said Raiders coach Don Holl. "Looking at McKeesport, the way they run to the ball, the way they can change direction, that has nothing to do with scheme. They're just very good athletically."

One group which will be tested by the Tigers is SV's linebackers, including Pat Kulp and Joe Duggan.

"You can also include Aaron Pynos and Chris Baxter in with them," said Holl. "They are safeties, but in our 4-2-5 defense, they often play as outside linebackers.

"Like everything else, our linebackers have done some good things in the last few weeks, but there are some things we still need to work on.

"Watching the film, it's easy to see where we're getting the job done and where we are not," he added.

Seneca Valley last played McKeesport in the 2003 opener, with the Tigers winning 41-0.