Trip to the Pit in Aliquippa may be too much for BVA

Even a few days in oppressive heat can’t stop me from having my attention turned to Friday night football in southwestern Pennsylvania.

There are some great games this week, a lot of games actually, featuring our local teams.

One of the eye-catching, most notable contests will be at Heinz Field at the Pit in Aliquippa as the two-time defending state 3A champions face off against the two-time defending 4A champions.

Undoubtedly, both these teams aren’t what they were the past few seasons. Players have moved on to college ball and graduated, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t talent on both sides of the ball.

The Quips are well, the Quips. The biggest advantage I think they have is the return of Penn State recruit Tikey Hayes.

The Leopards also have some talent returning, led by the Wade brothers, Anthony Crews and others.

Overall, the game is at the Pit and I think the lines will play a key role. While I think the BVA line will eventually come into its own, the Pit is a tough place to start.

Aliquippa 30, Belle Vernon 14

Elizabeth Forward at Highlands

The Warriors fell in a heartbreaker last week at West Mifflin, scoring with no time remaining and needing an extra point to tie.

The thing is, the Warriors were going for the win with a fake on the call.

I love coach John DeMarco’s intestinal fortitude in that situation. If the situation arises again, though, I bet he just lines up for the 2-pointer.

I don’t think the Warriors will need it this week as they’ll get back on track.

Warriors 21, Golden Rams 17

West Greene at Monessen

Too much speed for the Greyhounds, and this matchup isn’t what it once was.

Let’s not put the cart before the horse, though, Black Hills Conference play is right around the corner.

Greyhounds big.

Monessen 49, West Greene 12

Thomas Jefferson at Central Valley

While TJ’s offense is usually pretty similar year after year, the personnel consistently changes.

This group of Jaguars hit the ground running last week. This week, the defense will be tested, but the Jags will still put up more points than the Warriors.

Thomas Jefferson 35, Central Valley 21

South Allegheny at Brentwood

Brentwood was blasted by Yough last week, while the Gladiators beat 4A Ringgold by two touchdowns.

Drew Cook, Ryan Cortes and Cam Epps were a problem for the Rams.

Translation: The Spartans are going to have a long night.

South Allegheny 44, Brentwood 8

Clairton at Serra Catholic

The Eagles were beaten up at California last week.

The Bears throttled highly touted Steel Valley at the Wolvarena.

Even the grass at The Nest won’t stop the Bears in this one.

Clairton 37, Serra Catholic 17

In other games:

Yough 38, Charleroi 20 Indiana 14, Ringgold 12 McKeesport 28, Peters Township 27 Mapletown 20, Frazier 16 Burgettstown 27, Bentworth 18 California 41, Cornell 27

Last week: 6-4 Season: 6-4

JEREMY SELLEW

MVI Sports