Birdie ponders big question: Who will carry on Westmoreland County’s winning streak?

By: The Birdie
Sunday, August 18, 2024 | 6:01 AM

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Last season: 109-29 (79%)

As legend has it, an editor once told the Birdie his picks column needed more substance, more “meat.”

“It’s too mundane,” the editor said several years ago. “Use more statistics and facts. The whole thing is too contrived.”

The Birdie, always up for a good debate, was ready to retort.

“I’m like, ‘All due respect, sir,’” Birdie said, taking a bite out of a vending-machine cheeseburger he just nuked, “’but I am a cartoon bird. I myself am contrived.’

“He didn’t have much to say after that.”

A new high school football season is about to begin, and the all-knowing Birdie has concocted his kickoff piece, offering some fact-based — not plant-based — subject matter to show his old boss he still has panache.

Instead of boring his loyal readers with a how-was-your-summer editorial, he is opening the show with a real banger.

“So, here is something to think about,” Birdie said. “In case you haven’t noticed, Westmoreland County has had a team play for a WPIAL championship nine years in a row. Nine. That means the streak could reach an even 10 if somebody can break through again.

“And how about this for an extra point? A county team has been to the PIAA championship game four straight years. Time flies when you’re having fun, amirite?”

Some more facts to chew on regarding realignment:

“School’s almost in session,” Birdie said, “and a bunch of local teams have new class schedules. The standings are going to look a lot different. Here’s what you need to know for the new two-year enrollment cycle: Hempfield and Norwin are back in Class 6A, Latrobe and Kiski Area are up from 4A to 5A, and 3A juggernaut Belle Vernon is now in 4A.

“Wait, there’s more meat on the bone … Derry, Burrell and Yough are now in 3A instead of 2A. Got it? Good.”

Now for the legendary soothsayer’s first series of the season.

“Get ready to move the sticks,” he said.

• Belle Vernon: The Leopards know how to win and have become a model for success. A three-peat might be a stretch with the move to 4A, but they will be in the mix. Wins: 8

• Derry: Any success Derry has this season will be a reflection of how the Trojans play up front and if they can stop anybody. Wins: 3

• Franklin Regional: If the running game can continue to set the tone, the experienced Panthers have a real shot at the postseason. This is a sneaky-fast group. Wins: 6

• Greensburg Central Catholic: A smaller roster could present depth issues, but there are still some playmakers between the lines. Samir Crosby is top-shelf talent in Class A. Wins: 6

• Greensburg Salem: Developing an identity with balance on offense is one key, but the Golden Lions shoring up defensive faults is another. Wins: 4

• Hempfield: A return to 6A means the Spartans must protect the quarterback and establish a downhill running game. Both will be an uphill challenge. Wins: 3

• Jeannette: Big-play ability will continue to bubble up for the Jayhawks, who will improve on last year’s playoff season. Watch out for that secondary. Wins: 7

• Latrobe: Can the local team with the most buzz back up the hype? If the Wildcats stay healthy and develop a durable line, the potential for a benchmark season exists. Alex Tatsch and John Wetzel are studs. Wins: 8

• Ligonier Valley: Few teams look as efficient running the Wing-T on many Friday nights as the Rams. But defense will have to be the story for a winning season. Wins: 5

• Monessen: Offensive shootouts have become a regular occurrence for the Greyhounds. They can’t keep allowing teams to answer their big plays. Wins: 4

• Mt. Pleasant: The difference between a winning and losing season, like many years, will depend on blocking and tackling on the front lines. Wins: 5

• Norwin: Look for the rushing attack to get a boost, but moving to 6A will wear on the Knights. Tristyn Tavares has a cannon, but will more receivers emerge? Wins: 3

• Penn-Trafford: If there is a local program that sticks to what works, it’s the Warriors. They will continue to churn out yards on the ground. Wins: 7

• Southmoreland: The Birdie has been fooled many times by the Scotties, but he keeps coming back for more. An up-tempo defense has the potential to cause disruptions and force a lot of punts. Wins: 7

• Yough: The Cougars show signs of improvement in some areas, but not when it comes to stopping big plays. Wins: 3

Tags: Belle Vernon, Derry Area, Franklin Regional, Greensburg C.C., Greensburg Salem, Hempfield, Jeannette, Latrobe, Ligonier Valley, Monessen, Mt. Pleasant, Norwin, Penn-Trafford, Southmoreland, Yough