USC Takes on North Allegheny in Monumental Game

Both teams have been preparing for this game since day one of spring practice.

North Allegheny High School's varsity football team has outscored their first two opponents by a combined score of 102-28.

's varsity football team has outscored their first two opponents by a combined score of 91-0. They are the only Class AAAA team yet to be scored upon.

"As always, they hang their hat on defense," said North Allegheny head coach Art Walker.

The Panthers' defense has been spectacular, however they have yet to face the likes of a North Allegheny offense.

"I wouldn't go so far as to say we are in mid-season form, but they are a fast defense," said Upper St. Clair head coach Jim Render of his defensive unit.

They will need to be in post-season form to keep North Allegheny's offense at bay. They attack with a punishing ground game as well as a sophisticated aerial attack.

North Allegheny averages 366 yards per game on the ground compared to USC's 268 yards. But don't read too much into those numbers as USC starters have only played 3 1/2 of their first 8 quarters of football. Anything can happen once that whistle blows.

North Allegheny quarterback Mack Leftwich has been throwing for 137 yards per game. USC cornerback's Ryan Boyd and will be tested for the first time this season.

has passed for 55 yards per game. Again, the Panthers have just scratched the surface of what they can do on offense. Coach Render will undoubtedly unleash his superstar quarterback and it will be very interesting to see the results.

"We know they are good. Conwell is the key. He can score several ways," coach Walker said Friday morning.

On offense the Panthers have great pass catchers in Wilcox and tight end Jack Schwaba. Fans haven't had a chance to see what they can do in a concentrated passing attack but likely will Friday night.

"They have a huge tight end, good wide receivers and a great offensive line. They are experienced at every position," said coach Walker, who knows USC has more firepower than they've been allowed to display in their first two games.

The Panthers offensive line averages 255 pounds and fans can expect a run first, pass second attitude. If they can move the ball on the ground, it will open up the passing game for Conwell and company.

USC's defense will face their first real test of the season. North Allegheny has replaced graduated superstar running back Alex Papson with a pair of special backs.

Alex DeCiantas has run the ball for 154 on 22 carries in two games. Vinnie Congedo has averaged almost 11 yards per carry scoring three touchdowns and amassing 162 yards on just 15 carries. They can also open up a potent passing attack by grinding the ball on the ground first.

"They are a very fast team," said coach Render of his USC defense.

They will need every ounce of that team speed to keep the Tigers offense from outscoring the Panthers offense.

And watch out for USC's junior defensive end/wide receiver Rori Blair. He has blocked a punt in each of the Panthers first two games and came close to a third. At 6'4" and 200 pounds he is an fantastic athlete and coach Render will find ways to get him the ball.

This is a game that should live up to all the hype. Sure, anything can happen, however it could come down to a crucial mistake or two by either team. The star power will make Newman Stadium the place to be at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

The game will be broadcast on ESPN Radio AM 970 if you can't make it out to the game. Look for complete coverage on Upper St. Clair Patch Saturday.