Peters Township vs Cocalico PIAA Class 5A semifinals

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Today's big PIAA match-up in the 5A Semis is between 14-0 Peters Township and 12-1 Cocalico. Peters Township boasts three Power 5 prospects who played a significant role in beating Erie Cathedral last week. Cocalico, back-to-back District 3 5A champs, is making their second consecutive appearance in the semi-final. The Eagles will look to avenge last season's semi-final loss to the eventual state champ, Pine-Richland. Coincidentally, the Indians won their first WPIAL title in 2023 and knocked off the defending state champions in 5A, which was, you guessed it, Pine-Richland. Coming off a big victory against Ephrata, Warwick is the only team to defeat Cocalico in a narrow 17-14 victory this season. The Peters Township Indians will be looking to put loss #2 on the Eagles' record. There will most definitely be sparks flying tonight at 7 pm in Altoona's Mansion Park.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/svsports/status/1711729949046964311","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/svsports/status/1711729949046964311 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"[player_tooltip player_id='1105939' first='Aaryn' last='Longenecker']","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2024","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'11u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2411","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Cocalico","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eCocalico's success is indebted to key playmakers, and [player_tooltip player_id='1105939' first='Aaryn' last='Longenecker'] is undeniably one of them. A force to be reckoned with, this DB/RB exhibits a determined mentality on the gridiron, competing at the highest level. Longenecker's skill set positions him as a potential college free safety, showcasing a fierce commitment in run support. An intelligent player with keen route recognition and ball skills, he has demonstrated playmaking ability with a pick-six on film. As the leading rusher in Cocalico's Veer offense, Aaryn displays elusiveness, speed, and impressive balance. His football intelligence is evident with five interceptions this season, and his contributions will be crucial for Cocalico's success.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b92df"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/steffey_sam/status/1719136099409240126","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/steffey_sam/status/1719136099409240126 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["827551"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eSteffey, the top rusher of the 22-23 season, shares the lead in rushing TDs. A hard-nosed runner, Sam rarely succumbs to a single tackler. With exceptional vision and balance, he consistently falls forward on his carries. Sam is tied with [player_tooltip player_id='1105939' first='Aaryn' last='Longenecker'] with 16 rushing scores in '23. His wealth of game experience and toughness is palpable on the field. Besides being a powerful runner, he's also a pulverizing blocker at fullback. As a sure open-field tackler with grit, Steffey's motor is evident in his pursuit of running plays at LB.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b93d3"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"[player_tooltip player_id='1105894' first='Cole' last='Hooper']","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2024","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'6u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2405","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Cocalico","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003e[player_tooltip player_id='1105894' first='Cole' last='Hooper'] is a gargantuan prospect in the trenches for Cocalico, stands at 6'6 and weighs 275 lbs. This OL/DL is both physical and surprisingly nimble for his size. The first striking aspect on tape is his evident physicality. Cole excels at achieving optimal body positioning in his blocks. Particularly adept at lowering his pad level, he effectively utilizes his size with a strong punch to finish plays. His agility shines in reach blocking and fulfilling assignments on the second level. Hooper has garnered interest from the D2 and D3 levels.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b94ad"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["321186"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eMyers, the tough quarterback and manager of the offense, adds depth to Cocalico's playmaking ball carriers. The misdirection in Cocalico's rushing game, coupled with Myer's speed, proves advantageous for the Eagles. Possessing a strong arm for deeper throws and the running ability to keep defenses honest, Myers is a crucial element in the Eagles' offensive strategy. He has over 700 yards rushing, 4 TD passes and 11 rushing scores.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b9587"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Dane Bollinger","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2024","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'10u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2496","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Cocalico","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eBollinger, a consistent and reliable player, is a pound-for-pound power on the field. Quick to read plays and trigger fast in run pursuit, he displays agility and lateral movement when tracking the ball carrier. A formidable open-field tackler with a punch, Dane excels as a blitzer, providing consistent pressure. His mobility is evident in zone drops at MLB, and his ability to play off blockers is an asset to Cocalico's defense.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b9705"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["941159"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eHorning, a young and promising prospect, offers valuable depth to the Eagles. An elusive, gritty, and athletic RB with speed, Dane mirrors Steffey's powerful running style. Demonstrating vision and speed between the tackles, Horning is a secure ball carrier adept at breaking tackles for extra yards. The underclassman RB has been highly productive this season, averaging 5.5 yards a carry for 738 yards and 11 touchdowns.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b97a2"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["598802"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eVaccarello, a top-notch player with a junior blue-chip status, has garnered offers from Syracuse, Boston College, Miami (OH), and Duquesne. His impressive build at 6'4 and 210 lbs is matched by agility in space and a relentless motor in run support. A consistent tackler, Vaccarello excels in run/pass reads and displays impressive zone-dropping skills. His hand violence and sideline-to-sideline mentality pose challenges for opposing offenses.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b9854"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":"","_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eVelgich is one of the formidable defensive threats that the Eagles must account for. A wrecking ball on the interior DL, Jake impresses with his swift get-off and tenacious pursuit of the ball carrier. His fluid blitzing and diverse pass-rushing moves make him a constant challenge for opponents. With a strong and agile presence, Velgich disrupts plays consistently from the interior.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b9921"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/Reston_Lehman/status/1685354269963128832","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Reston_Lehman/status/1685354269963128832 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["306928"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eLehman, a heralded player from Peters Township, stands out with an FBS build and ability. The 6'4, 225-pound athlete is a force on both sides of the ball for Cocalico. Demonstrating physicality in hits and assured tackling in space, Lehman's speed blitzing off the edge poses a significant challenge. Analyzing plays quickly, he excels at taking away flat throws. Offensively, Lehman showcases versatility as an above-average blocking TE/H-back with athletic prowess.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1964b99fa"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["598991"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eMuscatello is a formidable presence on the defensive line, presenting a challenge for Cocalico. Agile, physical, and skilled, this pass rusher with a next-level build runs a 4.7 40-yard dash and displays an explosive get-off. Long arms aid in swatting down pass attempts while blitzing the QB. Offensively, Muscatello's agility contributes to down blocking and pass protection. A definite D1 prospect, Franco plays with a determined attitude.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1cb72d925"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["377920"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cp class=u0022p1u0022u003eu003cspan class=u0022s1u0022u003eShanafelt, a standout athlete across three sports, emerges as one of Peters Township's top playmakers. A deep threat causing trouble for man coverage squads, Carter exhibits soft hands and excels in gaining substantial YAC. Fearless in catching the ball amid heavy traffic, he is elusive and adept at tracking deep patterns before scoring. Shanafelt's potential for scholarship-level play is evident in his dynamic abilities. He's been getting interest from D2 u0026amp; FCS programs.u003c/spanu003eu003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-656a1cb72d97d"} /-->