Never too early to look ahead...Top 10 HS football teams heading into 2011

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

After going 131-49 on predictions in the regular season (I did not predict in week one) it's fair to pat myself on the back. I think since June 2008 when I started working at Montgomery Media I have learned a lot about the high school football area.

One thing I learned is teams like North Penn, LaSalle and Archbishop Wood will always be in the fight for a league title no matter how big or talented the graduating class is. Other teams will rely on sophomore and juniors that gained experience this year and hope they can come back improved and ready to take their team deep in the playoffs.

The state champions have not been crowned yet and I have not even started covering basketball, but nonetheless here are my top 10 teams in Montgomery Media's coverage area heading into 2011.

1. Archbishop Wood - It was a heartbreaking ending for the Vikings last Friday, but I know 100 coaches and 1,000 players that would kill to be playing in the Eastern State Final. The Vikings lose skilled leaders to both sides of the ball , but most would say their best players all return. The likes of Joey Monaghan (QB/S), Desmon Peoples (RB), Brandon Peoples (FB) and Colin Thompson (DE/TE) make them the early favorite to win the league, the district and possibly state title.

TE Colin Thompson

2. North Penn - A lot of people like to attribute the Knights year-in and year-out success to the size of their school, but there are schools similar in size that did not win three straight league titles. The Knights make sure the younger kids are ready to step in when it's their chance. Corey Ernst, the Knights' QB came on strong at the end of the year and should be able to pick up where he left off for his senior season.

3. LaSalle - The Explorers will lose a big contingent of their playmakers to graduation, but I'm not going to be the one to doubt Drew Gordon, who will be bring back his QB, Mike Magarity. Jamal Abdur-Rahman and Kevin Forster will be sorely missed, but I'm sure they will be fighting for a spot in the state playoffs when it's all said and done.

RB/CB Jamal Abdur-Rahman

4. Souderton - The Indians will bring nearly ever player that found the end zone for Big Red in 2010. This Indian team may be suited well enough to knock off the Knights for the first time since the SOL was realigned.

5. Upper Dublin - The Cardinals flew to the top of the league this season as junior QB Andrew Derr emerged and senior Anthony Williams took off in the running game. Count on Bret Stover to coach his team up to take it to the next level in Derr's senior season.

QB Andrew Derr

6. Cheltenham - In a similar situation to the Flying Cardinals, the Panthers shocked the forecasters and became a force in the SOL. While QB Kenneth Cropper will return in 2011 and should make the Panthers contender, the losses of Dan Rouse, Chris Stephens and Tedi Lester will make a tough offseason.

7. Plymouth-Whitemarsh - The P-W program took a giant step in the right direction under first year coach Dan Chang and I fully expect them to take another leap forward in 2011. The have a ton of young athletes returning that can make plays and QB Russhon Phillips is always a dual threat and one play away from a score.

QB Russhon Phillips

8. Abington - Coach Tim Sorber just knows what he needs to do if he want to make the playoffs. This year he moved talented running back Julien Ireland to QB and that got them into the second round of districts. I do not know what the Ghosts have up their sleeve for 2011, but I'm sure they will be in contention for a league title.

9. William Tennent - The winless seasons seem like ancient history after an up-and-down, yet successful season for the Panthers. The experience they gained this year and the confidence the accrued, just knowing they can compete should help them make a run at a playoff spot. Shakat Kofa (QB) and Connor Geiger (FB/LB) should lead the charge.

10. Upper Moreland - The Golden Bears had big aspirations come crashing down in the post season and they will lose a large, talented senior class, but it is time to put Adam Beach in the conversation will some of the top coaches in the area. It will be one of the deepest leagues next year, but I expect the Bears will find a way to return to the playoffs and use this year's early exit as motivation to go further.

Werth another look...The Nats overpay for former Phillie

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

Fast forward to the year is 2014. The Washington Nationals' Ryan Zimmerman is on his way to another gold glove. Stephen Strasburg is the favorite to earn his first Cy Young award and Bryce Harper is expected to win Rookie of the Year, yet the Nats are fighting to stay out of the National League East dweller. They have some talented young players, but all there money is clogged up in a 35 year old right fielder Jayson Werth.

On Sunday the Nationals opened their wallets and signed the 31-year-old free agent to a seven year 126 million dollar deal. The former Phillie deserved his pay day after four great years in the city of Brotherly Love, but if D.C. thinks they are getting 'THE GUY' the will surely be disappointed.

Jayson Werth averaged around a .280 average with 30 homers, 85 RBIs and 90 runs in his three years as a starter for the Phillies, but it was in a hitter friendly park with a ton of talent in the lineup surrounding him. I have said it for years and I continue to say Werth's all-star numbers were a product of playing in the perfect situation.

With Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hitting ahead of Werth in the lineup he was the least of opposing pitchers problems. While teams chose to pitch around Utley and Howard, Werth saw a  healthy dose of fastballs. Now granted, props to him for doing something with the opportunities, but it is nothing the Phillies should feel is irreplaceable.

I commonly compare Werth to other slightly above average outfielders and imply they could do Werth's job with that kind of protection. I have been quoted as saying Nationals' Josh Willingham, Padres' Ryan Ludwick and Tigers' Magglio Ordonez could all duplicate Jayson's worth in Philadelphia.

The numbers Werth has put up may put him in the Matt Holliday and Jason Bay pay tier, but those two former all-stars produced as the main guy, not the guy hitting behind the guy. Holliday has panned out to this point in St. Louis and Bay struggled with injuries in New York. I'll take Werth to be the worst of that trio for the next seven years. He had a chance to be successful in Boston hitting behind Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis and possibly Adrian Gonzalez, but in Washington Ryan Zimmerman is not enough to hide the holes in Werth's game.

Werth's struggles with runners in scoring position are well documented. When Ryan Howard was on the DL last year and Werth was moved to the 3-hole he pressed. Philadelphia fans were packing his bags. Werth failed so miserably as "THE GUY" that Phillies' manager went to an aging Raul Ibanez with Howard rehabbing. Werth may be selective and see a lot of pitches at the plate, but more often than not he whiffs at off speed pitches. While the best players adjust to off speed pitches, Werth is a guesser at the plate.

Washington had to overpay to land Werth, but it is not the guy I would have overpaid for. If they had offered 6 years-for-100 million, the same offer Boston came with, they knew Werth would have been slurping New England Clam Chowder by days end. But I stand by stance - if they just paid Werth to hit fourth, protect Ryan Zimmerman and be their top run producer until he is 40 years old they are going to set the organization back a decade.

Now, I will pull back on my stance on the deal slightly at the end of the off season if Washington signs a hitter that can replace former Nats' first basemen Adam Dunn, who signed with the Chicago White Sox last week. Players like Derrek Lee and Carlos Pena would alleviate some pressure on Werth, but he will NEVER live up to 126 million.

This is how the Nationals lineup projects if tomorrow was opening day...

CF Nyjer Morgan
SS Ian Desmond
3B Ryan Zimmerman
RF Jayson Werth
1B Josh Willingham
LF Roger Bernadina
C Ivan Rodriguez
2B Danny Espinosa

In that lineup here is a stat line I predict for Jayson Werth - .260 BA, 21 HRs, 79 RBIs, 60 runs and 10 SBs

That's not exactly earning your paycheck.

Congratulations to Jayson Werth, fore I probably would have taken the money if I was in your situation. But when the Nationals have an unmovable contract in 2017 and not enough money to build around the home grown stars they do have, I will say I told you so.

All-Area Pre-Season boys and girls basketball teams

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

I am counting down the days until I am inside where there is heating and there is exciting boys and girls high school basketball going down. Don't get me wrong, the football season has been superb, but once it is so cold my pen will not write I know it is time to start hooping it up.

Here are the players in Montgomery Media's coverage are that I am looking forward to seeing take their game and their team to new heights in 2010-2011.

FIRST TEAM

Rakeem Christmas

Rakeem Christmas SR (Academy of the New Church) - He is not just the top player in Montgomery Media's coverage, but the entire state of PA and possibly the top big man in the nation. Christmas will play at Syracuse after his senior year with the Lions.

Jaylen Bond SR (Plymouth-Whitemarsh) - Bond is the main cog back for the Colonials from their 2010 state championship. With C.J. Aiken starting for Phil Martelli's Hawks and Brandon Dixon and Whis Grant at prep schools, Bond, the Pitt signee will be asked to board and score more than ever has had to.

Jabril Trawick

Malcom Gilbert SR (Academy of the New Church) - As a sophomore the big man in Bryn Athyn averaged nearly a triple double for head coach Kevin Givens. The buckets and boards where to be expected, but the young division-one recrui'st ability to block shots has to be his best attribute.

Savon Goodman JR (Academy of the New Church) - Why not just round out the best front court in the area and talk about Savon. He may get lost in the hype of Christmas and Gilbert, but he too has a fair share of big colleges looking his way as a junior.

Jabril Trawick SR (Abington Friends) SG 6-5 - Trawick averaged 17 points and seven rebounds durinh his junior season, doing enough to catch the eye of legendary coach John Thompson at Georgetown. 

SECOND TEAM
Joey Gripper SR (Abington Friends) - Gripper is a smart player that has grown into the catalyst for Abington Friends. He's their play maker and can get the ball to Trawick or Abington transfer Kenny Johnson to score. He may not lead the team in points per game, but his talents are needed.

Wesley Rines SR (Abington) - With the loss of Kenny Johnson, Rines will need to account for even more of the scoring and the Galloping Ghots are not too worried about it. Rines' quick first step will help Abington become one of the top teams in the Suburban One League.

Jack Rauchut JR (William Tennent) - Rauchut is adding some muscle to his already big frame he supplied during his sophomore season. He should be able to dominate the boards more than he already did and improve on the 10 points per game from a season ago.

Mike Guldin 

Matt Possanza SR (North Penn) - The constantly improving Possanza will be the main scoring threat for the Knights in the 2010-2011 season. When you have a player like this 6-4 unknown around the area the Knights should definitely make the playoffs and challenge for a Suburban One Continental Conference title.

Mike Guldin SR (Pennridge) - I was torn between Guldin and his teammate junior Tim Abruzzo for the final spot on the all-league team. Abruzzo led the young Rams in ppg last year, but Gulding allows Abruzzo to get open as he demands a double team at the top of the key.

FIRST TEAM

Christine Verrelle

Christine Verrelle SR (Archbishop Wood) - Verrelle is a main reason the Vikings were able to win the Class AAA state crown a year ago and she is back for his senior season with her goals high. Without the experience of PIAA's Wood rolled along, so I can only imagine what Verrelle and crew has in store for the 2010-2011 season.

Steph Knauer JR (North Penn) - The opponents on the Maidens schedule knew all about seniors Taylour Alston, Shannon Knauer and Mary Ward, but it was the sophomore center the took the league by storm. She will not go unaccounted for this season, but she has to be my early favorite to win Suburban One Continental Conference Player of the Year.

Mary Jo Horgan

Ciara Andrews JR (Cheltenham) - We all witnessed her leaping ability and quick step to the basket during the playoffs with the Panthers. With the seniors, who did a lot of scoring gone, Andrews has a chance to average over 20 points per game in the 2010-2011 season.

Mary Jo Horgan SR (Mount St. Josephs) - The Magic do not lose often and while they like to preach its a total team effort, Mary Jo is one who takes over the game if it does get a little gritty. She can score from anywhere on the floor and her presence makes the Magic happen.

Aiyannah Peal JR (Abington) - Peal knows how to get to foul line and once she does, she will sink her shots from the charity stripe with regularity. She may only hit a few field goals, but before you know she is well over double digits.

SECOND TEAM

Shea Wassel SR (Lansdale Catholic) - Wassel has been the leading scorer for the Crusaders forever now, but for her finale in her senior year we should see some big things and a few more team wins backed by her leadership skills and her ability to drop 20 points on any given night.

Elise DiFilippo

Elise DiFilippo SR (Springfield) - DiFilipo has played the point for the Spartans for the last two years and seen trips deep into the postseason in both years. With her sidekick Annie Crudele, who could have also made the all-area team, the Spartans have giant goals in mind,

Ashley Alden SR (William Tennent) - She may be going to Rutgers for softball, but she can dominate on the hardwood as well. Alden is force for the Panthers in the paint and should be able to add some scoring they need to win enough games to grace the postseason.

Cutrena Goff SO (Upper Dublin) - Goff displayed her raw talents during her freshman season for the Flying Cardinals and with a year of experience under her belt, the guard should be able to take her game to the next level.

Carley Kendall JR (Souderton) - Goff was not the only lady to burst on to the b-ball scene last year. The Indians' Kendall emerged as a scoring star and should become the go-to-girl during the 2010-2011 season.

NFL Power Rankings: Three quarters in the books

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

I am thankful for having every Sunday off of work to relax and watch the full slate of NFL games. I am also thankful to the creator of NFL Red Zone. Boy, has that made fantasy football easy to track.

Here are what the 32 NFL teams are thankful for this November. There has to be something the Carolina Panthers are thankful for, right?

1. Pittsburgh Steelers -  Steelers are thankful James Harrison makes enough money to keep laying big hits and leading one of the greatest defenses in recent years. (1)
2. Baltimore Ravens - Ravens are thankful the defense can still win them games, but the offense has learned to carry its weigh behind Ray Rice and Joe Flacco. (2)
3. Atlanta Falcons - Falcons are thankful Matt Ryan does not know how to lose home games and the defense has been stellar against the run. (7)
4. New England Patriots - Patriots are thankful that as long as Tom Brady is under center it does not matter who is catching touchdowns. (3)
5. New Orleans Saints - Saints are thankful that they are winning games in 2009 fashion and we saw what that resulted in. (8)
6. Indianapolis Colts - Colts are thankful Peyton Manning is the only players to stay healthy this season and keep them in the hunt for another playoff spot. (4)
7. Green Bay Packers - Packers are thankful Clay Matthews has turned into a defensive MVP candidate and Aaron Rodgers continues to chuck the rock at will. (14)

8. Philadelphia Eagles - Eagles are thankful they decided to take a shot on Michael Vick because he's playing at another level right now. (15)
9. New York Jets - Jets are thankful they can win close games on the road otherwise they could have fallen out the picture quickly. (5)
10. New York Giants - Giants are thankful the schedule gets light in time to get healthy for the home stretch. (6)
11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Bucs are thankful the young trio of Freeman, Williams and Blount has emerged a legit offensive weapons. (11)
12. Kansas City Chiefs - Chiefs are thankful other teams in the AFC West have lost in the recent weeks and no one wants to pull away with the division. (10)
13. San Diego Chargers - Chargers are thankful they have made runs late in the season in the past, so they feel confident they can still win the AFC West. (16)
14. Chicago Bears - Bears are thankful they have found ways to win even though it has not been pretty at times. (17)
15. Jacksonville Jaguars - Jaguars are thankful they are under the radar. They'll keep winning and surprise everyone when they scare the Colts. (24)

16. Houston Texans - Texans are thankful their fans have come to expect them to show their potential and talent and still find ways to lose games. (9)
17. Tennessee Titans - Titans are thankful Kerry Collins is one of the better backups in the league because Vince Young is done even when he come back from season ending surgery. (12)
18. Oakland Raiders - Raiders are thankful Darren McFadden and Michael Bush can take some pressure of Jason Campbell and they can win any game, despite what the Steelers did to them in week 11. (18)
19. Cleveland Browns - Browns are thankful Denver decided to give up Peyton Hill for Brady Quinn, who will never see the field. (27)
20. Denver Broncos - Broncos are thankful for Tim Tebow and the revenue his jersey sales have produced. His one yard TDs and Orton's air attack has made losing look pretty. (19)
21. Miami Dolphins - Dolphins are thankful for the Miami weather. At least they do not have to freeze while Tyler Thigpen takes over as the Phins' signal caller. (13)
22. St. Louis Rams - Rams are thankful they have a bright future with Sam Bradford and can even sneak into the playoffs this season. (20)
23. Washington Redskins - Redskins are thankful Daniel Snyder has enough money to patch up his head coaches mistakes with a odd five year deal for Donovan McNabb. (21)
24. Seattle Seahawks - Seahawks are thankful they play in the worst division in the NFL and may make the playoffs over a deserving team from the South or East. (26)
25. Arizona Cardinals - Cardinals are thankful there will be a few good quarterbacks available in the draft even if they do not grab the number one overall pick. (28)
26. Dallas Cowboys - Cowboys are thankful Wade Phillips is gone. Now they can at least pad there stats for a good pay day and show off Dez Bryant to their disgruntled fans. (30)
27. Minnesota Vikings (25) - Vikings are thankful one half of the problem is gone in Childress. Next up - Favre. This is making boat-gate look like happy times.
28. Cincinnati Bengals - Bengals are thankful the wide recievers know how to keep it light off field. I've heard of people smiling through pain, but never tweeting. (22)

29. Detroit Lions - Lions are thankful they can watch Calvin Johnson mature into one of the greats greatest and hope next year is the year it all pans out. (23)
30. Buffalo Bills - Bills are thankful they are one team that is awful but has never quit. That will keep Chan Gailey around for another year. (32)
31. San Francisco 49ers - 49ers are thankful they have come out with drinking games to Singletary motivational speeches. Two chugs if he puts the game in gods hands. (29)

32. Carolina Panthers - Panthers are thankful they have can build stats in garbage time once they are down three scores. They have a calendar in John Fox's office that has 'Xs' on every day until the April draft. (31)

The most un-tradable athletes in pro sports

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

It was ordinary Tuesday in the sports world. I was still in awe of Mike Vick's perfromance on Monday Night Football and Roy Halladay winning the National League Cy Young was no shocker.

But when I heard FoxSports report the Diamondbacks are open to shopping Justin Upton I lost it. You cannot trade a 23-year old stud Arizona! I don't care what you get in return.

Then Dan Uggla gets moved to Atlanta for Omar Infante? I guess the Marlins did not care what they got in return either.

Anyway that splash of water to my sleeping skull on this boring day sparked this list of the 25 guys in pro sports that I would NEVER trade away.

25. Stephen Strasburg (7/20/88) - The Washington National future ace showed he can be dominant in the bigs before he was injured. If he did not need surgery he would probably be higher on this list.
24. Sam Bradford (11/8/87) - This year's first overall pick by the St. Louis Rams has shown to be calm, cool and collected in the pocket and he does not even have playmakers to get the ball to yet.
23. Buster Posey (3/27/87) - The newest member to the Rookie of the Year Award club and catcher on the World Series winning Giants can hit in his pajamas. You just cannot trade a franchise catcher.
22. Chris Johnson (9/23/85) - It was hard for me to add any running back to this list because of their short life span in the NFL, but Titans may have one of the all-timers if he can continue this for the next five years.
21. Adrian Peterson (3/21/85) - Speaking of all-time running backs, the Vikings may have one already in the backfield. He's slightly more durable than Johnson and the guy I want if I had the choice.

20. Joe Flacco (1/16/85) - The position you should build around is quarterback and the Ravens have their guy. The former Delaware man is the real deal and getting better every season.
19. Matt Ryan (5/17/85) - Flacco and the Falcons' guy will be compared forever coming out in the same draft, but I like Ryan a little more.
18. Evgeni Malkin (7/31/86) - He may be Robin on the Penguins but this kid has all the talent in the world and he'd clearly be the best player on any other team. (Almost - keep reading)
17. Troy Tulowitzki (10/10/84) - Maybe I'm a sucker for a slick fielding shortstop but I'd rather have the Rockies guy more than Hanley Ramirez or Elvis Andrus. Tulo is the total package and he should be able to stay at shortsop, unlike Hanley.
16. Aaron Rodgers (12/2/83) - He may not have a playoff win the Packers yet, but he's on his way to big things in the NFL. He's more proven than the three QBs higher on this list and Green Bay would not trade him right now for Brett Favre 1991 edition.

15. Calvin Johnson (9/25/85) - If you are looking for the next Randy Moss I think you have found it in Detroit and he has not displayed the Moss attitude yet either. I wanted to put Stafford on this list, but injuries scare me. Calvin only scares defensive backs.
14. John Wall (9/6/90) - Our first and only '90s kid on this list and in the first weeks of the NBA season the Wizards have to be feeling good about the first overall pick. Point guards seem to be the craze and he is the latest obsession.
13. Derrick Rose (10/4/88) - I think the former Memphis man Wall will always follow in Rose's footsteps. The Bulls got the guy who is slightly better in every way in my opinion.
12. Justin Upton (8/25/87) - The man who sparked this blog. Every year could be a year this kid leads the Diamondbacks back to the World Series and wins MVP. He's that good. Believe me.
11. Jason Heyward (8/9/89) - If there is one hitter I'd take over Upton it would be Jason Heyward. The Atlanta phenom only scratched the surface in 2010 of what he can do. The encore in 2011 should be sensational.

10. Jonathan Toews (4/29/88) - Unlike football, in this physical sport you can stay around for decade and be one of the greats. You won't find a football player in the top 10 for that reason.
9. Patrick Kane (11/19/88) - Toews and Kane are a tandem that has already won a Cup together with the Blackhawks. Why would ever think about breaking them up?
8. Clayton Kershaw (3/19/88) - Maybe the rarest gem in all of sports is the left-handed ace. The Dodgers' Kershaw is on his way. Every year he gains control, stops the walks and is on his way to multiple all-star games and a few Cy-Young Awards.
7. David Price (8/26/85) - Price is the lefty that figured it out in 2010. He may have left a sour taste in our mouths with a below average postseason, but this kid from Vandy has responded to the pressure.

6. Dwight Howard (11/8/85) - I think the Magic's center still has the chance to be better than the All-World player he already is. I think he can add a 20-footer and take over a game and compete with Miami Heat's combo of Wade and James. Neither of them are on this list because they are both crazy enough to demand a trade. I like team players.
5. Felix Hernandez (4/8/86) - Only if the Mariners gave him run support. He will probably win a Cy tomorrow and the right thing for the organization may be to trade him for five OK guys, but Seattle would never forgive management if they traded King Felix.
4. Tim Lincecum (6/15/84) - While Felix will get his award tomorrow, Tiny Tim already has two and a world series ring with the Giants to match. Even if you are scared of him breaking down you cannot look at the Freak and think you will get equal return for this alien.
3. Kevin Durant (9/29/88) - I wonder how many scoring title this beast of a child will finish with. He may never be Kobe, Jordan or even Lebron, but he's a game changer that you have to ride to the promise land.

2. Alex Ovechkin (9/17/85) - The Caps main man is building his hall-of-fame career up and he's not afraid to get mean if he has to. Will be one of the best players on the ice in the NFL for the next two decades.
1. Sidney Crosby (8/7/87) - The Penguins have a guy that is 2 years younger than O-V, does not throw is body around as much, and already has a title to his name. I want that guy for the 15 plus years.

All-Montgomery Media HS Football Team

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

*** The All-Montgomery Media football team was solely picked by me, based on what I have seen and read. It is NOT an official Montco Media team. I gave it that title based on the fact that the players needed to be on teams in the coverage area of Montgomery Media.

Without further adieu...

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Dominic Taggart (North Penn)  - I am not even sure what position the Knights' ultimate weapon can really be listed at. He lines up at fullback, wide receiver, tight end and halfback. He scores multiple touchdowns each week and is just as solid on defense. While a lot of the Knights' opponents looked to stop Craig Needhammer, the Knights' touchdown king, Taggart has torched teams every week.

QUARTERBACK: Andrew Derr (Upper Dublin) - The junior quarterback has matured into a leader on the field for the Suburban One League American Conference champs. He has talent surrounding him, so he has not had to do too much, but Derr's ability to manage the game and leave the field with wins helps me give him the nod. According to maxpreps.com Derr has a 102 passer rating with 11 touchdowns to three interceptions.

2nd Team: Julien Ireland (Abington); 3rd Team: Corey Ernst (North Penn); Honorable Mentions: Russhon Phillips (Plymouth-Whitemarsh), Kenneth Cropper (Cheltenham), Hank Coynes (Spring-Ford)

TAILBACKS: Ryan Brumfield (Owen J. Roberts) - Week after week the Wildcat finds the end zone four or five times and runs for 200 yards no matter the opponent. In the deepest position, where every team has some one who make game changing plays, I'm going with the kid that scored 100 career touchdowns and piled up 8,000 rushing yards. He could finish the year with the most rushing yards in Southeastern PA history and flirt with the record for most all-time in the state.

2nd Team: Desmon Peoples (Archbishop Wood); 3rd Team: Jamal Abdur-Rahman (LaSalle); Honorable Mentions: Naim Cheeseboro (Upper Merion), Craig Needhammer (North Penn), Jack Kinniry (Jenkintown), Travis McCurdy (Academy of the New Church)

FULLBACKS: Dom Defazio (Hatboro-Horsham) - The bruising Hatter has dealt with his share of injuries in a tough season in Hatboro, but when he is on the field he pushes off tacklers as if they were dust on his shoulders. In the game I saw him in person against Council Rock North the fullback lit up the scoreboard with four scores and 200 yards.

2nd Team: Devon Barrett (Lansdale Catholic); 3rd Team: Conner Geiger (William Tennent)

WIDE RECEIVER: Dominic Taggart (North Penn) - He was my player of the year. Enough said.

 2nd Team: Rocky Ferrier (Pennridge); 3rd Team: Ben Carbutt (Perkiomen Valley); Honorable Mention: LaMonnt Jackson (Germantown Academy)

TIGHT END: Colin Thompson (Archbishop Wood) - The big target for the Vikings is just a matchup nightmare. Need a first down - call number 84. Need a score - call number 84. Need to run the ball - run in behind the best tight end in Montgomery Media's coverage area.

2nd Team: Ry Yozallinas (Souderton); 3rd Team: Ralph Reeves (North Penn)

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN: Willy Kye (North Penn) - There is a reason the Knights are the two seed in the District One playoffs and for how good Taggart, Needhammer and company have been, it all starts with the offensive line. Willy Kye is the senior lead dog up front, sledding away and opening holes for whoever and whenever.

2nd Team: Nick Ruhl (Abington); 3rd Team: Max Vido (Springfield)

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN: Joe Stolfi (Souderton) - The Indians' defense has helped them win so many games this season and squeak into the District One playoffs. The main cog has been the defensive front and the leader on that unit is Stolfi. He has led one of the toughest run defenses and also has shown the ability to get to the passer.

2nd Team: Dave Driscoll (Upper Moreland); 3rd Team: Anthony Fecondo (Pennridge)

LINEBACKERS: Brandon Cope (Pennridge) - He has 600 ruhsing yards as a fullback, but the five sacks he has for the Rams has clearly helped this unit become one of the toughest to score against in the area. Cope puts pressure on opposing signal callers like very few others in the area and can also drop back in pass coverage and use his athleticsim to pick off passes.

2nd Team: Dan Rouse (Cheltenham); 3rd Team: Sean Duffy (Lower Moreland)

DEFENSIVE BACKS: Anthony DiNolfi (Norristown) - DiNolfi is a differnce maker on both sides of the ball and he has kept the Eagles in a number of games with his hands on defense. He's a leader on that club and he always find himself around the ball, making a play.

2nd Team: Sam McCain (Archbishop Wood); 3rd Team: Matt Conroy (Bishop McDevitt); Honorable Mentions: Anthony Delegall (Wissahickon), Tyler Weiss (Pope John Paull II)

KICKER: Brandon Mandes (North Penn) 
PUNTER: Ryan Winslow (LaSalle)

Week 11 Montgomery Media HS Football Predictions (winner in yellow)
LaSalle vs Roman Catholic
Owen J. Roberts @ Downingtown East
Souderton @ Council Rock South
Upper Dublin @ Neshaminy
Cheltenham @ Abington
Interboro @ Upper Moreland
Archbishop Ryan @ Pennridge
Lansdale Catholic @ Plymouth-Whitemarsh
Pottstown @ William Tennent
Norristown @ Phoenixville
Hatboro-Horsham @ Bensalem
Spring-Ford @ Upper Darby
Penn Wood @ North Penn
Perkiomen Valley @ Methacton
Germantown Academy @ Penn Charter
Archbishop Wood vs Cardinal O'Hara

Last week's record: 17-1
Overall record: 131-49
*did not predict in week one

Top 50 MLB Free Agents: Where will Lee, Werth and Crawford land?

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

Some things are forgone conclusions if life. What goes up must come down, milk will go bad if it is left out at room temperature and the New York Yankees are going to spend money on the free agent mark every offseason.
The deep pockets of the Steinbrenner family will not take a year without a ring easily and will free agents available in areas of need, it is almost a no brainer that the top two players on my top 50 free agent list will end up in the Bronx.
Not every player is easy to predict where they will land. It is a giant puzzle and once one piece falls the rest will find their home.

Here is how I see the puzzle being put together this offseason...

1. Cliff Lee (TEX) SP - Yankees: Talks between Lee's agent and the Yanks have already begun and with the ineffectiveness of A.J. Burnett and Javy Vazquez the Yankees will overpay for the 32-year southpaw. 
2. Carl Crawford (TB) - Yankees: You might think where is he going to fit in the lineup, but remember Marcus Thames was getting the bulk of the at-bats at DH toward the end. They'll find a way to make it work.
3. Jayson Werth (PHI) - Red Sox: If the Yanks are going to land the top hitter and pitcher the Red Sox would look foolish to walk away from the pool without a counter. You can only play the Daniel Nava's of the world so long. Werth should continue to be a doubles machine with the Monster at Fenway.
4. Adam Dunn (WAS) - White Sox: At the deadline GM Kenny Williams wanted the slugger and this offseason he will get his wish. Dunn could flirt with 50 bombs on the Southside of Chitown.
5. Derek Jeter (NYY) - Yankees: Stop all the speculation now. He's not going anywhere.
6. Mariano Rivera (NYY) - Yankees: Please reread the sentence next to Jeter's name.
7. Adrian Beltre (BOS) - Angels: The one year deal was a blessing in disguise for Adrian and much like 2003 he would make the buck for a stellar season. The Red Sox may think about resigning him, but I think the Halos are fed up with Brandon Wood and will pay for the established gold glover.
8. Victor Martinez (BOS) - Red Sox: With Beltre walking I think the Red Sox move Youkilis to third base, Victor to first base and go out and sign a defensive stud to split time with Jarrod Satalamacchia behind the plate.
9. Rafael Soriano (TB) - Angels: I do not think the Angels trust Fernando Rodney at the backend and Soriano is clearly the top closer available because Mo is not leaving New York. A lot of teams will be in on Soriano after the year he had for Tampa, including Tampa, but I think he moves out West.
10. Jorge de la Rosa (COL) - Brewers: The have the offense, they have the ace in Yovani Gallardo. The lefty is a solid number two a rotation that needs more than one pitcher to come along this season.
11. Paul Konerko (CHW) - Diamondbacks
12. Aubrey Huff (SF) - Giants
13. Carlos Pena (TB) - Blue Jays
14. Javier Vazquez (NYY) - Dodgers
15. Lance Berkman (NYY) - Tigers: Berkman will be able to give Miguel Cabrera some days off in the field and be a strong every day DH in the middle of the Motown lineup.
16. Hiroki Kuroda (LAD) - Mariners
17. Carl Pavano (MIN) - Mets
18. Hisashi Iwakuma (JAP) - A's
19. Derrek Lee (ATL) - Nationals
20. Miguel Tejada (SD) - Marlins: The Fish love to bulk the roster with players and coaches that will draw fans from South Florida and Miggy T fits the bill. He will have to move back to third base with Hanley Ramiez at shortstop, but he is a strong veteran presence on a talented young club.
21. Vladimir Guerrero (TEX) - Rays
22. Magglio Ordonez (DET) - Phillies
23. Andy Pettite (NYY) - Yankees
24. Johnny Damon (DET) - Dodgers
25. Jorge Cantu (TEX) - Orioles: Ah yes, the rotating door of above average talents at first base for the O's. Garrett Atkins was a giant bust, Ty Wigginton filled in however nicely enough to walk for more money, so back to another older, slightly productive bat for Baltimore.
26. Scott Podsednik (LAD) - Braves
27. Jon Garland (SD) - Cardinals
28. Joquian Benoit (TB) - Mets
29. Brian Fuentes (MIN) - Phillies
30. Adam LaRoche (ARI) - Cubs: The biggest puzzle pieces are first basemen this offseason. With a number of fairly equal bats available once one team picks who they like the most out of Konerko, Berkman, Lee, Huff and LaRoche they will find their home. I'm going with LaRoche to Wrigley Field.
31. Orlando Hudson (MIN) - Padres
32. Aaron Harang (CIN) - Indians
33. Jon Rauch (MIN) - Rays
34. Kerry Wood (NYY) - Rays
35. Hideki Matsui (LAA) - Mariners: There was talk about it last offseason and this year I believe it happens where Godzilla combines for with Ichiro, taking the M's from the worst offense in baseball to the 2nd or 34d worst. But they love the Japanese players in Seattle so I can see Matsui and Hiroki Kuroda landing in the northwest.
36. Manny Ramirez (CHW) - A's
37. JJ Putz (CHW) - Orioles
38. Kevin Millwood (BAL) - Astros
39. Jake Westbrook (STL) - Mariners
40. Brandon Webb (ARI) - Rangers: With the inevitable loss of Cliff Lee the Rangers will need a top of the line starter if they want to return to the playoffs. With none really easily available, the inured cy young winner become the best alternative.
41. John Buck (TOR) - Brewers
42. Kevin Gregg (TOR) - Diamonbacks
43. Ty Wigginton (BAL) - Rangers
44. Orlando Cabrera (CIN)- Tigers
45. Jim Thome (MIN) - White Sox: If you watch "The Club" on MLB Network you hear how much they love Big Jim and how much they missed his presence in the clubhouse this year. I say Thome goes back for a bench roll and occasional DH even with the signing of Adam Dunn.
46. Jeremy Bonderman (DET) - Twins
47. AJ Piersynzki (CHW) - Royals
48. Juan Uribe (SF) - Giants
49. Jeff Francis (COL) - Royals
50. Chris Young (SD) - Tigers

Where Montgomery Media has taken me since last post...

Over the weekend I was witness to one of the top football teams in the state tune up for this week's first round game of the District One playoffs. North Penn and will play Penn Wood. 

READ MY GAME STORY FROM LAST FRIDAY AGAINST PENNRIDGE HERE!

Pennridge Season Statistics (5-5)
Rushing: Jesse Knepp 166-877, 8 TD; Brandon Cope 118-671, 7 TD; Kyle Peters 72-148, TD; Kim 6-96, TD; Carter Peters 29-129; Kyle McCabe 10-40; James Marrero 6-29; Mackenzie Crawford 4-18; Dylan Moore 2-5; Kyle Bigam 1-3.

Passing: Kyle Peters 51-112, 791, 7 TD, 6 INT; Alex Krivda 0-2-0, 0; Jesse Knepp 0-1-0, 0

Receiving: Rocky Ferrier 22-355, 4 TD; Brandon Cope 14-261; Jesse Knepp 8-67; Dylan Moore 3-58, TD; Kyle McCabe 3-77, TD; Jake Newman 1-64, TD; Carter Peters 1-15.

Interceptions: Kyle Bigam (3), Kyle McCabe (2), James Marrero (2), Mackenzie Crawford (1)

Sacks: Brandon Cope (5), Jake Newman (2), Forrest Short (1), Mackeznie Crawford (1)

Field goals/Field goals attempted: Caya 3/6

XP/XPA: Dan Caya 13/15; Jon Dubyk 1/2

Continental Conference Standings

North Penn 9-1,7-0

Souderton 7-3, 6-1

Central Bucks West 8-2, 5-2

Central Bucks East 4-6, 3-4

Pennridge 5-5, 2-4
Quakertown 4-6, 2-4

Central Bucks South 3-7, 2-5

Hatboro-Horsham 2-8, 0-7

On Saturday night I attended the District One Class AAA Girls Soccer Championship between Council Rock South and Pennridge. If you read my blog on Friday I previewed the game and I hit it right on the nose. I gave Rock South the slight edge and said it was destine for a 1-0 finish.

READ MY GAME STORY FROM SATURDAY HERE!

Previewing the District One Girls Soccer Championship: Pennridge vs Council Rock South

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

The Golden Hawks were expected to be at Souderton on Saturday night for the Class AAA District One girls soccer championship. Widely regarded as one of the top teams in P.A., the top seed team in the district beat Upper Dublin, Conestoga and Central Bucks West in order to be playing for a title.
The Rams were awarded the seventh seed in District One, but wins over W.C. Rustin, Avon Grove, C.B. South and W.C. East have the girls in green going for their second championship in three years.

The edge points to the C.R. South taking home the title, in what should be another overtime or penalty kick game, but the Rams have the talent and the experience on the pitch and no one would be that shocked if they are receiving the trophy at night's end.
I will not predict a winner, because I have seen South play twice and Pennridge plays at least six times, but I do think I can break down the game. How about 1-0 win for whoever it is? That seems like a safe bet.

Goalkeepers: This will be Ashley Schoellkopf's second year in net for the Rams' deep playoff run. She has made the occasional scary charge out of net on a rolling ball, but it is her aggressive style that makes her one of the best in the area. Give her clear vision of the attempt and she will typically stuff it. For the Hawks, Lolo Buonomo and Samantha Lawson have splitting duties all season. In the semifinal match against the Bucks, the senior keeper Buonomo showed her prowess by saving the first two shots in penalty kicks.

Midfielders: The two teams both are loaded with experienced leaders, but they bring a different aspect to the field. The Hawks, led by Cara Deola at center mid is a playmaker. Her footwork and soft touch allows her forwards to finish more often than not. Deola is not afraid to take a shot on goal herself and is clearly who the Hawk they want with possession with the game on the line. The Rams have a physical and a slightly more defensive midfield. Led by Maggie Butcher and Kate Wiley, the tandem wins the majority of free balls and shuts down developing plays. Look for Butcher in the box on restarts and corners and Wiley will fire on goal from 35-to-40 yards at any time.

Forwards: Both teams are just loaded with speed at the attacking positions. The Hawks have multiple girls that will win 30 yard sprints to the corner, but the Rams' have sophomore Natalia Pinkney, probably the fastest girl I have seen all season. Pinkney is still learning to bust it 110 percent on every play she on the pitch for, but even at 90 percent she has been a game changer, including the assist in overtime of the semifinal match against West Chester East.

Defensive Backs: If Pinkney is not the fastest girl I have seen, than it is Mary Cate Callahan. The senior center back can put her two sense in on offense then recover and stop a quick transition like no other. The Rams had two stud center backs in Aislinn Roberts and Carly Henry, but Roberts is done for the year with a knee injury and Henry should play, but missed the semifinal match with a soar hamstring.

Difference maker: How will Rams' coach Jorge Rodriguez use his two best players Stevi Parker and Bridgette Hess. Due to the injuries Parker and Hess have move to the back line to sure up the defense, but it only took four minutes for Hess to score once she was moved to forward for the second OT against the Vikings. If I was the Rams' coach I would try to score early by alternating Parker and Hess up top and pack it in once you take the lead.
The Hawks are healthy, favorites and the confidence has never waned. They expect to win and if they have any inkling of their opponent first year head coach John Oberhotzler knows how to take advanatge of it.

It's an obvious statement, but who ever scores first will win this game. Probably because it will be the lone goal. And whoever losses this game will still be a big threat to make a run at a state championship and those playoffs will begin on Tuesday.

Week 10 Montgomery Media HS Football Predictions (winner in yellow)
Germantown Academy @ Malvern Prep
Jenkintown @ New Hope-Solebury
Plymouth-Whitemarsh @ Norristown
Souderton @ Quakertown
Springfield @ Morrisville
Upper Moreland @ Upper Merion
Lower Moreland @ Bristol
Cheltenham @ Wissahickon
William Tennent @ Abington
Owen J. Roberts @ Perkiomen Valley
Hatboro-Horsham @ Central Bucks West
Spring-Ford @ Pottstown
Methacton @ Boyertown
Pennridge @ North Penn
LaSalle @ Father Judge
Archbishop Wood @ Archbishop Carroll
Academy of the New Church @ George School
Bishop McDevitt @ West Catholic

Last week's record: 16-4

Overall record: 114-48

*did not predict in week 1

NFL Mid-Term Power Rankings

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

The only good things about mid-terms were it usually was followed up with at least a week's time of vacation. There is still plenty of time for a C-student to turn it around, but the same goes for the A plus kid, who can fall off the map is they get too cocky.

After 8 weeks here are my NFL Power Rankings...teams with a * are my playoff teams...week 4 ranks in parentheses at the end

1. *Steelers (5-2) - A prime-time game in New Orleans is tough game to win for any team in the NFL. They still have the best defense in the league and Mike Wallace's is becoming a legit downfield threat for Big Ben. If you made me pick, I'd pick Steel City to win the Super bowl, definitely to make it there. (2)

2. *Ravens (5-2) - It is what it is, but the two best teams in the league are in the same division. You think defense when you talk Baltimore, but the Ravens are doing it with the offense this season. (1)

3. *Patriots (6-1) - The only one loss team in the league deserves top billing consideration, but I still have questions about their defense. In the playoffs they could be exposed to the point Brady and Belichick cannot bail them out of. (9)

4. *Colts (5-2) - Players come and players go for various reasons, yet as long as Peyton Manning is running the offense and Dwight Freeney is spinning into your living room, the Colts are dangerous. (6)

5. *Jets (5-2) - I had thoughts of putting the Jets at three, but with Revis battling his hamstrings and Mark Sanchez still searching for some consistency, they could be a one-and-done team in the postseason if you can shut down their running game and make the one-dimensional. (7)

6. *Giants (5-2) - I guess they G-Men are the best team in the NFC right now as the defense has been ball hawking over the last three weeks. Eli Manning has a triplet of threats in the air and Ahmad Bradshaw has thrived as the lead back. I wouldn't be shocked if they made the Super Bowl or missed the playoffs. (17)

7. *Falcons (5-2) - They may be the most complete team in the NFC as we hit the midway mark. The defense is playing well and the offense is as balanced as its been since Chris Chandler and Jamaal Anderson. They are my pick to make the Super Bowl right now. (5)

8. *Saints (5-3) - Games against Cleveland and Arizona leave the public confused about what is going on with the Saints. Do they think they will win just by taking the field? They still have all abilities to return to the Bowl, but taking weeks off will come back to hurt them in the long run. (3)

9. Texans (4-3) - Every year I think Houston will take a step forward and this year they have done that. They are a scary team, but with some defensive injuries they could be falling into another 8-8 year and just missing the playoffs. (8)

10. *Chiefs (5-2) - I think it is time to call the Chiefs legit. They run the ball better than no other team and they stop the run with best in the league. They are so legit I'm picking them to hold off the Chargers and Raiders and get their butt whooped in the first round of the playoffs. (15)

11. *Buccaneers (5-2) - The NFC version of the Chiefs, I love Josh Freeman, but they do not have the pieces to truly compete down the stretch yet. When wins are needed in December and beyond I'd like to see what this up-and-coming team can do. (24)

12. Titans (5-3) - Some weeks they look unstoppable and others they are stopped easily. They just makes me believe 8-8 is a forgone conclusion. (14)

13. Dolphins (4-3) - If they can get Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown running again they have the skills on defense and playmaking receivers in Marshall and Bess to make some noise down the stretch. (11)

14. *Packers (5-3) - My preseason pick to win it all has been swarmed with injuries, which has really made life tough for Aaron Rodgers. They are still make pick to win the North, they are not a dominate team like I expected. (4)

15. Eagles (4-3) - Mike Vick. Kevin Kolb. Mike Vick. They Birds need to get consistant under center before we can really evaluate what type of team this is. If the young Bucs falter and Vick picks up where he left off in Jacksonville the Eagles could grab a playoff spot. (20)

16. Chargers (3-5)  - The most talented three win team makes me continue to say Norv Turner has to go. Phillip Rivers and Antonio Gates have been record breaking awesome this year and if Vincent Jackson wants to come back and help they could overtake the AFC West with a strong finish. (10)

17. Bears (4-3) - Now we have reached the teams that can beat the best and loose to the worst. They are in position to make the postseason currently, but I'd be surprised if they get to eight wins. (18)

18. Raiders (4-4) - How about the last to weeks by the Raiders? Just smoked the Chargers and Seahawks , but still are not buying Jason Campbell or Bruce Gradkowski led teams as contenders. (23)

19. Broncos (2-6) - I have been enamored in Kyle Orton's production, as he has been great in fantasy football, but then when I looked at the standings I realized they are not winning real-life games. Josh McDaniels may be my least favorite coach. (13)

20. *Rams (4-4) - They are wide-eyed and confident and to a point they should be with Sam Bradford, who has a bright future ahead of him. I am going to pick them to win the West, only to be bounced easily in the first round. (22)

21. Redskins (4-4) - When you have to bring in Rex Grossman to win a one-score game the boat is sinking fast and I don't see anyone around to save it. (21)

22. Bengals (2-5) - The T.Ocho show is the best thing they have going right now in Cincy. Check it out on VH1. It is hilarious. (12)

23. Lions (2-5) - If there is a two-win that could make the playoffs it is the Lions. I think the Bears and Packers are headed in the wrong direction and the Matt Stafford to Calvin Johnson combo is deadly. If they can beat the Jets this week I'd really have to think about them squeaking out a division title at 9-7. ( 27)

24. Jaguars (4-4) - How is this team 4-4? They offensive line is so bad Maurice Jones-Drew cannot find running room. I'm so confused and not remotely sold on David Garrard. (26)

25. Vikings (2-5) - Something is wrong in my head when you waive Randy Moss and keep a hobbled and old Brett Favre in the lineup. If I was a Minny fan I would have already started the fire Childress chants. (16)

26. Seahawks (4-3) - Jacksonville with 4 wins is crazy, but Seattle is an outrage. What do they do well? I
guess the defense shut down the run, which bodes well for some wins, but this team could not win another game and it would not surprise me. (28)

27. Browns (2-5) - Colt McCoy has not looked awful. That is a good sign for the future, right? (30)

28. Cardinals (3-4) - Max Hall? Derek Anderson? Where's Matt Leinart when you need him. (25)

29. 49ers (2-6) - I think Mike Singeltary needs to take his rah-rah approach to the college level where kids appreciate the motivation words. Pros just want their paycheck. (29)

30. Cowboys (1-6) - They were not very good with Tony Romo taking snaps. With Jon Kitna? Bring out the paper bag masks in Big D. (19)

31. Panthers (1-6) - I think if you were to go position-by-position the Panthers have the least talent in the NFL. If you cannot get DeAngelo Williams and Jon Stewart running, something is seriously wrong. (31)

32. Bills (0-7)  They have come close against Baltimore and Kansas City. This is the week against Chicago. Aiming for 2-15 this year. (32)