New faces and returning veterans will challenge for titles in both sections of the Berks Football League. If nothing else, a new season promises to be competitive.
In Section I, the now annual challenge of unseating Governor Mifflin, who is seeking its fifth straight title, could come down to the season’s final weeks. In Section II, Berks Catholic will aim to defend its crown with a host of new faces.
What’s in store for the 2014 Berks League season?
A Section II rundown is below.
Predicted Winner:
The Skinny:
There’s a lot to like about this section, namely the fact that any number of teams can win it. Berks Catholic loses plenty, yes. But the Saints have an arsenal of up-and-comers.
Challengers:
Berks Catholic’s 2013 season had everything infant programs dream of: a Section and District crown, a trip to the state semifinals, and a 14 win season. They lose plenty, but bring back plenty.
So, who will challenge them?
Wyomissing and Schuylkill Valley are no strangers to the playoffs, and Fleetwood returns seven all-league picks from a year ago.
Big Games:
Fleetwood returns 13 starters in full. They and newcomers alike will just four games to get acquainted before a gauntlet featuring a crossover with Muhlenberg Oct. 4 smashed between division showdowns with Schuylkill Valley Sept. 26 and Wyomissing Oct. 11 kick its season into full gear.
As for the defending champs, a 1:30 p.m. season-fine with Wyomissing Nov. 1 should be required watching. Don’t miss Schuylkill Valley’s Oct. 3 showdown with the Saints, either.
More District 3 predictions:
Mid-Penn: Commonwealth | Keystone | Capital | Colonial
Lancaster-Lebanon: Section 1 | Section 2 | Section 3
York Adams: Division I | Division II | Division III
Berks:Section 1 | Section 2
Tri-Valley
MVP Candidates:
Unlike Section I, there’s not a clear front runner before the Friday night lights shine bright. A quartet of players could factor, though.
At Fleetwood, a deadly duo of back Tyler Emge and receiver Michael Allen, both first-team picks last year, are back. Wyomissing tailback Tom Paolini could factor, and two-way standout Pop Lacey from Berks Catholic could make plenty of noise.
Players to Watch:
Keep an eye on another running back/linebacker primed to make a big impact, Fleetwood’s Shaq Cobb, Kutztown receiver Bryce Santos, Berks Catholic linebacker Matt Reinhart and quarterback Patrick Causa, and Fleetwood booter Matt Hook.