Indiana Gazette from Indiana, Pennsylvania • 17

The Indiana (Gazette HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL IHS taking on Fox Chapel on homecoming I Now that he's found his defense, Indiana coach Bill Waryck is hoping it sticks around. Indiana's sometimes-absent defense showed up last week and spearheaded a 21-7 victory over Seneca Valley. The Indians held Seneca Valley to 38 yards rushing and 131 total yards to move to 5-2 overall and 2-2 in the WPIAL Quad North Conference. They'll need the same kind of effort to slow down Fox Chapel, which visits Fifth Street Stadium Friday for homecoming (7:30 p.m. kickoff).

"That's something we've emphasized: that one play, two plays, three plays are not good enough, one game is not good enough. The consistency has to be there for every quarter of every game," Waryck said. time is not good enough and we've tried to emphasize that to them. For the defense to be where it has to be we have to play the last three games like we played last week. Three slips and that could mean 21 points." Foxes bring a 2-5 record (1-3 in the conference) to Indiana.

One of those victories came against perennial power North Allegheny, 21-14. that can beat North Allegheny is right there," Waryck said. "They're big and physical up front and they hit pretty Fox Chapel features the run-and-shoot offense, and that's something that scares Waryck. While Indiana has been solid against the run, the pass defense has been suspect, allowing 148 yards a game and drawing several pass-interference penalties. a scary team," Waryck said.

"They throw the ball very well, and that's been our biggest problem, pass defense. They have four receivers and a quarterback who can put it there. So we'll have our hands full." quarterback Rurik Johnson (6-1, 185) has already thrown for well over 1,000 yards. He has completed 88 of 195 passes (45 percent) for 1,280 yards, with 11 touchdowns and six interceptions. The top receiver is senior split end Ken Scholtz (6-1, 180), who has 31 receptions for 408 yards and three touchdowns.

The other big target is senior tight end Doug Ostrosky (6-7, 245), who has 21 catches for 386 yards and four TDs. Ostrosky has already committed to Penn State. "They have some very talented kids," Waryck said. Fox Chapel is coming off a 62-20 loss to unbeaten North Hills, the top-ranked team in the state and one of top teams in the country. "They lost to Seneca Valley, but it was 14-14 going into the fourth quarter," Waryck said.

"They had some breaks go against them in the fourth quarter. They could easily be 4-3 if not Indiana could easily be 6-1 and holding down second place in the conference. One of the Indians' losses came against Butler (31-21) two weeks ago in Indiana's last home game. "Hopefully by now they realize that they're not good enough to walk on the field and beat anybody," Waryck said. "If they do think that, they're going to get beat up again like they did against Butler.

They have to go all out all the time to be the kind of team they want to be. "We've insisted on high intensity in practice now more than usual and we hope, that carries over to the game. The kids have a lot of pride in themselves and Indiana football. Hopefully they're embarrassed about the two games they lost and hopefully they're not going to let that happen Indiana needs a victory to stay in the playoff race. The Indians are tied for third at 2-2 with Seneca Valley.

Butler and North Allegheny are tied for second at 3-1. Powerful North Hills appears to have the conference title locked up. The top two teams earn playoff berths. "I'm a firm believer in taking one step at a time," Waryck said. "I don't think (trying to make the playoffs) should be something that should make us play any better or any worse.

"Whether we make the playoffs or not, they'll remember the games they won and lost for the rest of their lives. It's nice to have the playoffs to shoot for, but it's not the whole goal. The goal is to win this game." a Indiana's Lloyd Clemons is continuing his assault on the barrier. The senior tailback enters Friday's game with 876 yards. Indiana hasn't won on homecoming since 1989.

"It's been a while since we've won a homecoming game and it would be nice to get Waryck said. "There's a good we'll win. Teams aren't supposed to lose on chance we'll lose, but there's 5 a good chance their homecoming. It's a matter of pride." NOTES: Indiana senior tailback Lloyd (Gazette photo by Tom Peel) Clemons will continue his quest for 1,000 with 986 yards last season, Clemons enters yards. The IHS season record-holder Friday's game with 876 yards.

Clemons has a 1 1,893 career yards. Senior fullback Jeff Snyder is second in career yards with 1,445. X-rays on Nick Kotula's band proved negative. The tight end-defense end returned to contact drills on Wednesday and will play Friday. Marion Center trying to shake up 'Cats By BILL BALINT Gazette Sports Writer Aren't sophomore quarterbacks supposed to be sharpening their skills on Monday afternoons in the low-key environment of junior varsity football? Not in the case of Homer-Center and Marion Center.

Each will be led by 10thgrade QBs this Saturday afternoon in one of the marquee Appalachian Conference Northern Division matchups of the season (1:30 p.m. kickoff at Marion Center). After a disappointing 15-13 loss to Saltsburg two weeks ago, Stinger coach Brad Smith moved junior QB Chad Fairman (5-8, 155) to tailback, making room for sophomore Tim Jevicky (6-0, 165). The move paid huge dividends, as Jevicky and Co. downed Blairsville, 35-13.

Jevicky sparkled in his debut with three touchdown passes to running -turned-tight end Ray Voelkel, who moved to make room for Fairman. "We never even attempted a pass to the tight end before Ray moved there," said Smith. "But the real question mark in this whole thing was (Jevicky). "Would he make sophomore mistakes like forgetting the plays, dropping the snap or turning the wrong way? I just didn't think he was ready in The loss to Saltsburg caused Smith to take another look. "The coaching staff felt we had gotten complacent," he said.

"We thought we needed to show the kids that anybody can be replaced, so we decided to shake things up a little bit." H-C skipper Rick Foust was well aware of Jevicky's ability prior to last week's impressive performance. "I had seen him play in a JV game so I knew he could throw the football," said Foust. "Marion Center had a great running game before, but now they can beat you with either the run or the Compared to Jevicky, Wildcat sophomore QB Noah Christian (6-2, 175) is a veteran. Christian has started every game this season, guiding H-C to six wins in seven outings. As expected with such a young quarterback, Christian has gone through some growing pains.

But he's thrown for a respectable 413 yards on 24 completions. "He's done a good job in the games I've seen," said Smith. "I think running is the priority for both teams, but the pass is used for the big play. (Christian) can make the big play." While the focus might be on the two young QBs, an epic battle looms between the MC running game and the H-C defense. Using the Wing-T formation, the Stingers are tied WPIAL Matchups Mt.

Pleasant at Derry (7-0) (6-1) Kickoff: Friday, 7:30 p.m. Storyline: The much-anticipated return of former Purchase Line coach Ed Dalton to the area has arrived and it couldn't have come in a bigger way. Dalton's Mt. Pleasant squad rolls into Derry unbeaten and 3-0 in the Keystone Conference. On the other side, the Trojans are 4-0 in conference play.

A win by Derry would clinch a playoff berth after five consecutive losing seasons. Key stats: MP has given up only 22 points in three conference games and just 59 for the year. But that defense will be given a test by the area's top passer in Derry's Darin Henigan (816 yords). Receiver Shone Johnson (16 catches) is Henigan's favorite target. Last meeting: MP crushed Derry 57-0 last year.

A look ahead: The Trojans close KC play at Southmoreland on Friday. Thursday, October 21, 1993-Page 17 Weekend I Matchups By TONY COCCAGNA Gazette Sports Editor al 21 Noah Christian will be one of two sophomore quarterbacks at the controls when the Wildcats take on Marion Center Saturday afternoon. (Gazette photo by Barry Reeger) Altoona-Punxs'y s'y games usually go down to wire By DAVE PUTNAM Gazette Staff Writer When Altoona bank plays on secing a tight, well-played high at Punxsutawney, fans can usually school football game. For example, the past six scores when the Mountain Lions invaded Groundhog Country have been 21-14, 8-3, 21-15, 20-19, 8-7 and 18-14. and on Punxs'y the Mountain Lions' last trip here the has won four of those decisions, Chucks edged out the Steve Taneyhill-quarterbacked team by a 21-14 count.

Not to say, however, that each and every Altoona-Punxs'y game is a nail-biter. Last fall at Mansion Park the Lions blanked the Chucks 26-0 in one of the rare blowouts of this long series. Another close one should be on hand at Punxsutawney on Friday night (7:30 kickoff). The Mountain Lions have played a rugged schedule and are 2-5. They have defeated Fredrick, (Md.) and State College while losing to McKeesport, Chambersburg, DuBois, Williamsport and Cedar Cliff.

Altoona's size up front has Punxs'y coach "Their center is concernednd their Juart and his staff tackles are in the 265-270-pound Juart said. "They're just a lot bigger than we are. "I look for them to just try to run right at us. If that doesn't go they might start throwing, but they haven't passed real well this season." Game of the Week for the area lead with an impressive 260 yards per game rushing average. But MC will face the area's best run defense this week.

The 'Cats have held seven foes to an average of just 79 yards per game on the ground. "It should be interesting," said Foust. "Marion Center gave us some more things to think about with their passing last week so it'll be a challenge preparing for them." Leading the MC ground game is running back Mike Galentine (6-0, 165), who has rambled for 614 yards and five TDs. Fairman ran for 60 yards in his new position on just 13 carries. "Chad is an extremely talented runner," said Smith.

"We want to get the ball in his hands 15-20 times a game. The Stingers will likely need every ounce of that talent to overcome a defense that allows a mere four points per week. Smith pointed to defensive lineman Marc Gardner (5-11, 200), linebacker John Zometsky (6-1, 190) and defensive back Shannon Kundla (6-3, 180) as three of the players causing him particular concern. "Homer is incredibly tough on defense," said Smith. "They seem to have great team speed and pursue the ball very well.

"It's just going to be a war. Something has to give. In addition to his stellar defense, Foust is hoping his offense can help keep MC's scoring machine on the sidelines. Running backs Rick Duffalo (6-1, 230) and Eric Bella (6-0, 185) have combined for 766 yards as H-C is fifth among division teams in total offense (238-yard average). Kundla is the Wildcats' home run threat from his receiver slot, averaging more than 22 yards on his 11 catches.

"We normally feel like we can take some chances on offense because of our defense," said Foust. "But this week, we must make (MC) drive a long way down the field. Our offense cannot make a mistake in our own territory. "We must give our defense a chance to get field position for our offense." NOTES: MC's seniors have yet to defeat the 'Cats, as the Stingers have lost to H-C the past two seasons. Foust's club must win in order to remain in the hunt for District 6 playoff spot.

H-C is currently third in the district standings and needs a win by Bishop Guilfoyle over second-place Bellwood-Antis tomorrow evening in order to gain control of its own destiny. Freeport at Apollo-Ridge (2-5) (3-4) Kickoff: Friday, 7:30 p.m. Storyline: The Vikings are reeling after a fast start and ore now just 2-2 in the Allegheny Conference. A-R now must win its final three to record a winning season. Last week's 32-20 loss to Deer Lakes was a major blow to Viking playoff hopes.

Freeport, a loser in five of its first six, should be riding high after upsetting Mars 22-6 last week. Key stats: Viking R3 Nate Dunmire (72-477, 7 TDs) hod a big night in defeat last week with 184 yards and three TDs rushing. A-R will need Dunmire to excel once again to keep the pressure off a passing game that averages only 36 yards per game. Last meeting: Freeport thrashed the Vikes 42-6 in 1992. A look ahead: A-R travels to Mars on Friday.

Laurel Valley at Purchase Line (7-0) (4-3) Kickoff: Friday, 7:30 p.m. Storyline: The unbeaten Rams can clinch a berth in the Appalachian Bowl and solidify their spot atop the District 6 standings with a victory. LV is also aiming to extend its 21-game regular-season winning streak. The Dragons will be looking to pull the upset of the year in the division and assure themselves a winning season just one year after posting an 0-9 slate. Key stats: The LV defense has been awesome, shutting out six of seven foes.

The Rams allow only 123 yards per game. Senior DBs Steve Peterson and Jason Foust have five interceptions apiece. TB Eric Baird (95-633) has scored 13 TDs. PL wants to get its running game going to keep pressure off sophomore QB Heath Lutz. Last meeting: LY won 39-28 last year.

A look ahead: Purchase Line welcomes Northern Cambria next Friday and Laurel Valley entertains Bishop Carroll on Saturday. United at Northern Cambria (2-5) (4-3) Kickoff: Friday, 7:30 p.m. Storyline: The Colts are still looking for their first home win of the season, having lost to the AC North's three heavyweights (Laurel Valley, Marion Center and Homer-Center) in Barnesboro. Meanwhile, the Lions are trying to bounce back from a 38-0 whipping from Laurel Valley. Key stats: Colt RB Rick Magulick (125-946) leads the area in both rushing and scoring (17 TDs).

Magulick set a school mark with 287 yards and four TDs last week vs. Penns Monor. He could explode again against a defense that is last in the area, allowing 312 yards of total offense per game. The Lions counter with the AC North's top passing game. QB Ryan Mytrysak has thrown for 667 yards, while receivers Brian Burket (17 catches) and Matt Rodkey (16) are also among area leaders.

Last meeting: Northern Cambria took a 22-18 win in 1974. A look ahead: NC makes the short trip over to Purchase Line on Friday and United closes its season by hosting Saltsburg on Saturday. Penns Manor at Saltsburg (0-7) (2-5) Kickoff: Friday, 7:30 p.m. Storyline: The teams will be looking for a break after losing by a combined 94-0 last week. The Comets are hoping to post their first win since early in the 1992 season.

Key stats: Both squads have struggled miserably on offense. Saltsburg is last in the area, averaging just 132 yards per game in total offense. PM is faring little better with a 136-yard average. The Comets score a paltry three points a week, while the Trojans average just seven tollies. The difference could be defense, where PM allows a whopping 304 yards and 33 points per outing.

Comet RB Pete Paulina (121-685) remains near the top of the area rushing list, while Saltsburg's Clint Craft (79-514) is hoping a big outing could boost him a few notches. Last meeting: Saltsburg earned a 34-12 victory last season. A look ahead: Both teams return to action next Saturday. PM plays Marion Center at home, while Saltsburg heads to United. Bishop Carroll at Blairsville (1-6) (4-3) Kickoff: Friday, 7:30 p.m.

Storyline: The Bobcats are still smarting over last week's 35-13 loss to Marion Center. With rival Homer-Center waiting next week, Blairsville needs a win to ensure a winning season. The Huskies will be the underdog but did play Purchase Line tough in last week's 20-15 setback. Key stats: The 'Cats will try to exploit a Husky defense that gives up almost 27 points per game. RBs Eric Elliot (119-470).

Sam lezzi (61-325) and Jess Houser (6 TDs) lead the ground game. Mike Houser (14 catches) and Jason Berzansky (12) spearhead the receiving corps. The BC offense will face one of the area's stingiest defenses, as the 'Cats permit a mere 146 yards of total offense per contest. Last Meeting: Blairsville won 42-8 last year. A loak ahead: The 'Cats travel north on 119 to face Homer-Center on Friday and BC heads to Laurel Valley on Saturday.

Berlin at Blacklick Valley (2-5) (1-6) Kickoff: Saturday, 1:30 p.m. Storyline: This is a game featuring two teams enduring disappointing campaigns. Berlin did pick up its second victory last week, downing winless North Star, 28-12. The Vikings are looking for respectability after a 35-12 loss to Portage. Key stats: BV has struggled on both sides of the ball.

The Vikings allow 286 yards and 27 points per week, but gain just 181 yards to go along with 10 tallies. On the bright side, QB Nate Ray (483 yards), RB Todd Ray (100-536) and receiver Ryan Holby (17 catches) remain near the top of the area rankings. Holby continues to lead with seven interceptions. Last meeting: Berlin downed the Vikings 38-6 in 1990. A look ahead: BY visits Shade next Friday.

Altoona is coached by eighth-year coach John Franco. The Mountain Lions, as noted, have a physically impressive front line anchored by center Allen Buterbaugh and tackle Damion Petri. Mike Crago is a running quarterback and tailback Dave Jones is the Mountain Lions' top runner and receiver. The Chucks face Altoona with a modest two-game win streak and hopes of finishing the season with a five-game string of wins. They have defeated Allegany, (Md.) and St.

Marys in their last two outings to go to 4-3 overall and will finish the campaign with Altoona, State College and Brookville. If, as Juart suspects, Altoona decides to run right at Punxs'y it could be another tight game. The Chucks defense is undersized but has been tough all season. Juart's defense has put up three shutouts (DuBois' lone TD was a pass interception) and limited two other foes to just two TDs each. Punxs'y, on offense, usually grinds out yardage right up the middle behind the running of Brett Farmery, Tim Mibroda and Chris Dubensky.

When the Chucks do throw the ball they have a threat in wideout speedster Scott Noerr. "We've got some bumps and bruises," Juart said, mentioning center Brad Curry, linebacker Tim Heckman and tailback Tim Mibroda, "but I think everyone will play." Altoona has played six of its seven games this season on artificial surface, five at Mansion Park and one at Williamsport. They could face a slow track at PAHS Stadium on Friday, especially if this week's rainy weather persists. Keystone at Shannock Valley (0-7) (5-1) Kickoff: Friday, 7:30 p.m. Storyline: Keystone's record may be deceiving, as it lost just 26-14 to Keystone Shortway Conference leader Brockway last week.

But SV will be the definite favorite to secure a winning season after going just 1-7-1 in 1992. The Spartans will be looking for a repeat of last week, when they dumped winless A-C Valley by a 20-3 margin. Key stats: Spartan RB Leroy Blystone (73-571, 9 TDs) must average 108 yords in his final four games to crack the plateau. QB Todd Heigley (497) guides the oreo's third-best passing offense. Both Blystone and Heigley could shine vs.

a Keystone defense that gives up more than 27 points a game. Last meeting: The Spartans shut out Keystone 19-0 in 1991. A look ahead: SV plays at conference power "Brockway on Saturday..