NTL FOOTBALL: WYALUSING TAKES THEIR SHOW TO CV (2024-08-30)

BY CHRIS MANNING
Northern Tier Sports Report
Wyalusing came away with a week one win over North Penn-Mansfield, but coach Rich Rogers feels they didn’t put their best foot forward.

“The varsity knows their conditioning is not where it needs to be, so we are addressing that,” he said. “I’m very pleased with our defensive effort in week one, but we are preparing for the third week in a row to face a good quarterback, and solid passing attack.”

They ran for over 200 yards but needed to go 8-for-9 on fourth down conversations to keep drives alive, not a good place to be in.

“The emphasis is also on improving up front offensive, and being more efficient with our run game,” said Rogers.

One area he’s pleased with is having a JV squad, and getting the younger players involved.

“Early on this week we were focused on putting together a JV squad, which is my first here at Wyalusing,” said Rogers. “We were able to send 15 kids over to Island Park Monday night, and we are very excited about our younger players getting a chance to learn the game against like competition.”

KEYS TO THE GAME

Wyalusing — Get to the quarterback. The Rams did a good job keeping NPM quarterback Cooper Shaw off balanced last Friday. He was just 3-for-15 from the pocket, but did get the one long touchdown. CV’s Graham Hess threw for nearly 260 yards last week, so expect them to continue to lean on the pass.

Cowanesque Valley — Get off the field. Wyalusing grounded out the yards but NPM came close several times in stopping their scoring drives. A few inches here or there and it’s a closer game. The Indians will need to get those stops on third or fourth down, or their offense will hardly see the field.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Dylan Johns, Wyalusing, RB — The Rams’ big play threat led the team on the ground with 127 yards last week, including two runs over 30 yards. He pushed the momentum to Wyalusing’s side with his 39-yard run on fourth down off the fumbled punt, so he can change the game on one play.

Dave Hess, CV, WR — Hess hauled in three catches for 143 yards last week. Expect the Indians to look his way again this week as they try to get past Wyalusing’s defensive front. 

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