Young players thrown into deep end for Penn Hills’ matchup with Central Catholic

By: Josh Rizzo
Sunday, October 22, 2023 | 11:01 AM

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Interrupting the Northeast Conference schedule to play Central Catholic was a tough spot for the Penn Hills football team.

The Indians were facing the juggernaut Vikings a week after they were upset by Pine-Richland. Central Catholic pounced on Penn Hills at West Mifflin High School, scoring a 45-12 win.

But, for Indians coach Charles Morris, the game against Central Catholic represented an opportunity for Penn Hills to see where it was. With two games remaining, against Shaler and Woodland Hills, the Indians were able to get some younger players some time.

“I think, for us, it was a gaze to see where we are at,” Morris said. “I know we were down a few bodies. I wanted to see how some of our guys who hadn’t played as many minutes would step up. It’s tough playing Central Catholic because they have the numbers to rotate guys in and out on the offensive line.”

Penn Hills junior defensive back Kevin Marcus was one player Morris said he worked into the lineup to support a banged-up secondary. Freshman offensive/defensive lineman Aaron Bradley helped fill some holes up front.

What Morris hopes to get out of young players is to see them step up in difficult spots.

“We want them to let us know they are mentally tough and will step up to the challenge,” Morris said. “That way when we are behind the eight ball, we can count on them to step up.”

Central Catholic’s defense also made things tough on Penn Hills. Indians quarterback Julian Dugger was forced into six incompletions to start the game. He rallied to pass for 162 yards and threw two touchdowns to Cam Thomas.

Penn Hills (6-2) finished with 339 yards of offense.

Central Catholic was able to move the ball against Penn Hills’ defense. Vikings quarterback Payton Wehner threw for 282 yards and three touchdowns.

Even thought they were dealing with injuries while playing a top-ranked 6A opponent, the Indians’ expectations for the game didn’t change.

“My goal is to win every game,” Morris said. “For our kids, the goal is the same. You don’t want to lose sight of the bigger goal. We want to win a 5A championship. We are still in the race. One game like that won’t control our fate.”

Penn Hills is in a good position to win the conference title and secure a home game to open the playoffs. The Indians were focused on adding two more wins to close out the season.

“Our kids are staying in the moment and taking things game by game,” Morris said.

Tags: Penn Hills