Schuylkill Haven will host Northern Lehigh in a highly anticipated District 11 2A semifinal on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 18:00. The Hurricanes, boasting an impressive record of 11 wins and no losses, are looking to extend their successful run following a dominant 62-14 victory over Catasauqua in the opening round of the playoffs. Northern Lehigh enters the matchup with an 8-3 record after a closely contested 29-28 overtime win against Palisades.
Last season, Schuylkill Haven’s playoff aspirations were cut short when they lost to Williams Valley, 28-13, in the District 11 2A Championship. Since that defeat, the Hurricanes have rebounded strongly, winning 11 consecutive games, beginning with a narrow 19-14 victory over Blue Mountain in Week 1.
The previous encounter between these two teams resulted in a 49-19 victory for Northern Lehigh in the last game of the 2021 regular season. This time, Schuylkill Haven’s defense has shown remarkable strength, shutting out three opponents this season, including Panther Valley, Shenandoah Valley, and Marian Catholic, with a combined score of 170-0.
Key Players and Team Performance
A significant factor in Schuylkill Haven’s success this season has been junior running back Colton Reber, who has achieved an impressive total of 31 rushing touchdowns and accumulated 2,268 yards. Additionally, the Hurricanes have outscored their opponents 603 to 148 throughout the season. Senior quarterback Max Heim has contributed with 21 touchdown passes and 1,038 passing yards, while Niko Castillo has made a notable impact with eight touchdown receptions and 384 receiving yards.
Defensively, the Hurricanes are led by Triston Davis, who averages 6.5 tackles per game, and Chase Williams, who has recorded 24 tackles for loss. Castillo has also been instrumental on defense, contributing with 18 tackles for loss and an average of 4.7 tackles per game.
Northern Lehigh’s offensive strategy revolves around junior quarterback Garrett Smoyer, along with running back Chris Frame and versatile player Ryan Zambo, who can both run and receive effectively. The Bulldogs are looking to capitalize on their momentum from last week’s overtime victory.
Looking Ahead
The winner of the Schuylkill Haven versus Northern Lehigh matchup will advance to the District 11 2A Championship, where they will face the victor of the semifinal between Minersville and Williams Valley. Schuylkill Haven last claimed the district title in 2018, capping a three-year championship streak, while Northern Lehigh last won the title in 2021.
Both teams are eager to secure a place in the championship, and Saturday’s game promises to be an exciting contest that could shape the future of high school football in the region.
