The Birdie’s No. 1 priority is picking Westmoreland County playoff games

By: The Birdie
Wednesday, November 8, 2023 | 5:14 PM

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Last week: 8-1 (88.9%)

Season: 103-28 (78.6%)

The Birdie pulled from his car trunk his favorite playoff keepsake — his giant, foam No. 1 finger — as the quarterfinals get set to kick off this week.

No, it wasn’t meant to point out his radiant one-loss record from last week (8-1) or to signify his self-importance as the top prognosticator in the state. The crumbling, spongy relic carries meaning.

“It only makes sense,” Birdie said, raising the finger in the air like Dikembe Mutombo after a blocked shot. “It fits the mood this week. We’ve got three Westmoreland teams left in the playoffs, and they all have No. 1 in common.”

A stringer comes into the room: “Your picks are more like No. 2.”

The Birdie ignores him and refocuses, telling him to “peace out.”

The Westmoreland Wonderfowl has a point.

Belle Vernon is the No. 1 seed in Class 3A, whereas Latrobe (4A) and Greensburg Central Catholic (A) will face No. 1 seeds Friday night in Aliquippa and South Side.

“I only have one of those local teams winning, which also makes this foam digit even more meaningful,” Birdie said. “You’ll have to read on to see which one. Yes, I am looking at you, skimmers.”

Latrobe (8-3) at Aliquippa (9-0): Though Latrobe is beyond the teeth-cutting stage of being a playoff team again and is developing an edge with a sound running game and defense, it will simply run into a better, faster team this week. Look for the Wildcats to move the ball early before big plays by the Quips change the tone at Heinz Field. Aliquippa, 42-20

Deer Lakes (8-3) at Belle Vernon (8-1): Belle Vernon has been off a week, which could lead to a recharged battery or a rusty one. Deer Lakes brings a unique element with a strong passing attack and underrated defense. But, simply stated, the Leopards have been there before and the Lancers have not. Belle Vernon, 42-14

Greensburg Central Catholic (8-3) at South Side (11-0): South Side will present a power running game the likes of which GCC has not seen. The Rams will possess the football and wear down the Centurions’ front line. GCC will hit a couple of big plays, then go quiet. South Side, 38-17

Tags: Aliquippa, Belle Vernon, Deer Lakes, Greensburg C.C., Latrobe, South Side