Pittsburgh Central Catholic Team Preview

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pittsburgh Central Catholic will look to improve on a 7-5 record from the 2022 season. The Vikings have one of the biggest winning traditions in western Pennsylvania. They are known to be a competitive team that's capable of winning the state championship every year. PCC returns a stable of weapons and seems to reload annually. Not only does Central Catholic bring back a plethora of veteran performers, but their underclassmen are also some of the best college prospects in the state of Pennsylvania. There are so many players worthy of being mentioned that I had to break this up into a two-part series. So, without further ado, here's part one of Pittsburgh Central Catholic's team preview.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/PCC_FOOTBALL/status/1691281974516707328?s=20","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/PCC_FOOTBALL/status/1691281974516707328?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/ColeSull18/status/1657173232774967296?s=20","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/ColeSull18/status/1657173232774967296?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["377047"],"_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 style=u0022text-align: leftu0022u003eCole is a Michigan commit and was recently selected to PrepRedzone's 2023 First Team Preseason All-State Squad. Sullivan has the frame, heart, ability, and experience it takes to be a blue-chip prospect. He's a hard hitter who plays from sideline to sideline. He's talented at reading and reacting, triggering fast to assist in run support. He's an intimidating blitzer that's hard to block in all facets. He showcases great hips, zone dropping, and has the ability to make plays on the ball. Sullivan is one of the most consistent big-time performers in the state of Pennsylvania.u003c/pu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e00650b0834"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/aspeca6/status/1666246002385248257?s=20","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/aspeca6/status/1666246002385248257?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["97978"],"_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":"Speca is another one of PCC's critically acclaimed leaders and also one of PA's finest. He embodies all the classic Penn State LB traits: ferocity, physicality, instincts, and an unyielding drive. The blue-chip recruit boasted more than 20 FBS offers before committing to the Nittany Lions. Anthony's pad level facilitates impressive lateral movement, while his raw power and explosiveness shine through on numerous impactful tackles on tape. I'm excited to watch Anthony hitting on all cylinders on the field this season. Speca is a 2023 Prep Redzone Preseason First Team All-State pick.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e00728d1a37"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/vsettles0/status/1594770369356959748?s=20","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/vsettles0/status/1594770369356959748?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["142785"],"_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":"Settles has Division One offers from Akron, Duquesne, and Monmouth. He is an athlete who excels on both offense and defense. He's a deep threat that puts pressure on safeties in the slot. Central Catholic does a good job of getting the ball to him in the slot or on the outside. His ball skills are impressive; watching him catch footballs across the middle and intercepting passes. Settles is versatile on defense, performing well at safety and cornerback in '22. He has good hips and the height to contest against big receivers. Settles had over 600 receiving yards and 5 interceptions overall last season.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e008083b200"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["893844"],"_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":"Jayden's a quick slot that's capable of big YAC. He's fast off the line and can be a mismatch against slow-footed OLBs. Thrift showcased good speed and separation, scoring on a vertical route up the seam on his '22 film. He's another guy the Vikings try to get the ball to in space to utilize his short-area speed and quickness. Thrift also adds quality depth to PCC's wide receiving corps.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e0096d536a0"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["147875"],"_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":"u003c!u002du002dmoreu002du002du003eAmari is one of two ball carriers who will be counted on by the Vikings. Shields is slippery with balance, exhibiting body control and maneuverability when running through small holes on the inside. He's quick-twitched, displays vision and patience as a RB, and he routinely accelerates past defenders. He runs with forward lean and maintains power while securing the ball. Amari is agile with speed, which enables him to improvise quickly when he has the ball. Shields and Faulkner are two of the best horses in PCC's backfield stable.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e00aa73ef00"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/Tyuhas5587/status/1686486027878232064?s=20","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/Tyuhas5587/status/1686486027878232064?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["255945"],"_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":"The Pitt commit displays a lot of strength when he initiates contact. Ty's motor allows him to be an active participant in the run game. He's a thumper that displays explosion and athleticism when he hits someone. He's a DE that's capable of blitzing from a 2-point or 3-point stance and redirects well in pursuit. He is capable of playing on the interior or exterior along the DL. He's aggressive when engaging and disengaging blockers. Ty asserted his dominance in numerous instances at the 2Tenths Top 150 camp this summer. He had a swift get-off and did everything with a low pad level as expected. He was also skilled at synchronizing his hand violence with his pass-rushing moves during one-on-ones. He's proportionately built and has impressive athleticism for a D-Lineman of his size. Yuhas is obviously a person everybody wants to see since he's already committed to Pitt, and he seems to be up for the challenge. Yuhas was a 2023 Prep Redzone Preseason First Team All-State selection.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e00b2b5404b"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["916710"],"_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":"Elijah is a dangerous ball carrier who split his carries with [player_tooltip player_id='147875' first='Amari' last='Shields'] in '22. He has a compact build at 5'9, 180 lbs and is well-suited for breaking tackles at the high school level. Faulkner is somebody you don't want to let reach full speed with the ball because he's capable of scoring. He's a gritty runner who regularly falls forward while fighting for extra yards. He's especially dangerous on stretch plays, where he can accelerate once he hits the edge of the defense. He's a good pass protector who delivers a nice pop. On defense, he's a reliable open-field tackler at OLB and FS. He looked great running the alley in the last clip of his 2022 film. Faulkner and Shields form a dangerous pair of running backs in the WPIAL.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e00c1acdc0a"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["386096"],"_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":"Sam is another quality OL with valuable game experience. He's an efficient OG that fires off low and runs his feet through contact. He's agile enough to fulfill assignments on the 2nd level. He's currently 6'2, 255 pounds but displays good strength, finishing plays physically. He's a consistent performer that excels at pulling and pass protecting. He plays at a low pad level and stalemates bigger competition. Brackney is one of the clear enforcers along the O-line for the Vikings.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e00cd30e073"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/IrishfanWPA/status/1692380731857666068?s=20","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/IrishfanWPA/status/1692380731857666068?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["164149"],"_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":"Peter is another blue-chip recruit who's above average executing WR drills in person. He has straight-line speed and quickness getting in and out of his breaking points. He has Power Five ball skills and he's physical versus press man. He's a large WR who can control his body and has the necessary quickness to gain separation from smaller, quick-twitched DBs. Gonzalez's size is especially dangerous due to his catch radius and strong hands. Peter has the type of talent that translates to him being a dangerous outside WR on the FBS level. Gonzalez had a plethora of Power Fives to choose from before committing to the Nittany Lions, like his teammate, top PA LB [player_tooltip player_id='97978' first='Anthony' last='Speca']. He's a playmaker and another big leader for the Vikings' squad. Gonzalez was recently selected to the '23 Prep Redzone Preseason All-State Team.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e00e39c1563"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["557808"],"_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":"Tanner is one of the many college prospects on the O-line for the Vikings. All of Central Catholic's O-linemen display sound technique and effort, and Fuchs is no different. He's pretty mobile for being 6'2, 290 lbs. His agility can be seen when he's pulling or getting in front to lead block on screen passes. He's pretty solid all around the board with a strong punch. Fuchs is physical and plays with good bend, allowing him to finish DL to the turf. PCC's depth at OL is some of the best I've seen in Western Pa.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e010ce4900b"} /--> <!-- 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":"Grayson Nugent ","_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":"6'4u0022","_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":"Pittsburgh Central Catholic ","_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":"Grayson is a legitimate prospect that brings good playing experience. I'm intrigued to see what gains he made in the offseason. He's a solid OT who does a good job of completing his assignments. He establishes a strong base, kick-sliding when pass protecting. Nugent is also reliable as a down-and-reach blocker, getting his man on run plays. The 6'4, 270 lbs OL has been in contact with D1 programs but hasn't received an offer yet.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e010ce490b3"} /--> <!-- 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":"Jacob Sassic","_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":"2410","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Pittsburgh Central Catholic ","_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":"Jacob is a tough little slot that adds depth among the wideouts for the Vikings. He's a good route runner that does a good job of getting north and south after the catch. He's an elusive returner and also hard to corral on spot screens and wing reverses. He showed the ability to play WR and DB this spring with Team Evolve. Sassic consistently made plays on special teams, whether he was tackling on kickoffs or returning kicks.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e010ce49142"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/Xxavier_Thomas/status/1681336539010281474?s=20","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/Xxavier_Thomas/status/1681336539010281474?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["169963"],"_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":"Xxavier is a standout DB, similar to his older brother Rodney Thomas, who also plays DB but for the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL. He pedals with a low pad level and is a willing tackler. He's an instinctive DB with good footwork that gives him an advantage when breaking on the ball. He's a smart player with good route recognition. He's also a dangerous returner, capable of taking a kick back for a score. Thomas showcases FBS talent, making plays on the football and executing press man technique. The junior CB/WR is a playmaker that I'm excited to watch this year. He currently has offers from Akron and Yale.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e01138550fe"} /--> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/GompersBradley/status/1685039300553924608?s=20","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/GompersBradley/status/1685039300553924608?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["598629"],"_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":"Gompers looks the part of a Division One wide receiver. The '25 prospect has offers from Cincinnati, Boston College, UNLV, Pitt, and WVU. Bradley's basketball experience aids him in mobility, particularly given his impressive 6'5u0022 frame. He runs a 4.5 40-yard dash and exhibits body control when running routes. He has strong hands and instinctive ball skills, snagging passes. On defense, Gompers showcased sharp play recognition and anticipation in '22, resulting in a pick-six against Bethel Park. Gompers and [player_tooltip player_id='164149' first='Peter' last='Gonzalez'], the Vikings' two big-bodied FBS wideouts, will present matchup problems for opponents in the red zone. Gompers is capable of being a dynamic flex Y at the FBS level should he continue to bulk up.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e0124216fb7"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["259543"],"_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":"Grady is another PCC player with good size, standing at 6'2 and weighing 220 lbs. He has good bend in his stance and does a solid job of locking out offensive lineman when surveying. He has a nose for the ball and gives adequate effort. Papa was active in run support, playing DE last season. I expect Grady to assume added responsibility for the Vikings in 2022.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64e013161f8be"} /-->