Hawbaker

After 4 games, the Portville Panther varsity football squad is undefeated thanks to great playing on offense, defense, and special teams, as well as a lucky break, when Silver Creek had to forfeit their 12-6 win over Portville in Week 2.

The PCS offense has rock and rolled for 108 points (16 TDs), giving up only 31 (5 TDs). The "O" is averaging 270 yards per game, most of it from running the ball (87%). The defense has been very good, giving up just 172 yards per game.

Because of an ineligible player, the Silver Creek AD reported the offense to the proper authorities, and Portville was awarded a 2-0 forfeit win. The PCS coaches were shocked to hear of the news, and there have been no detailed reports from The Buffalo News, The Olean Times Herald, WGRZ-TV, and the various Internet sites that follow local football.

Silver Creek was the better team that night, but the Panthers will take this lucky break. Portville certainly had the ability to beat Silver Creek, but they blew it in the second half.

Silver Creek is one of several good teams among the three D leagues, including Randolph, Maple Grove, and Frewsburg. Portville plays Randolph at home this weekend, and it will be one of the biggest games in the region. The Panthers will need their A-game.

Portville has enjoyed great success in football over the past 25 years, getting to the semi-final and finals of the sectional playoffs in many of those seasons. Yet, the Panthers have only won a single Section 6 championship (in 2003) out of 4 attempts at Ralph Wilson Stadium since 1985, when they joined the NYS Federation.

Maple Grove has won 2 state championships and 4 of 10 sectional championships. Randolph has won 1 state championship and 6 of 10 sectional finals at The Ralph.

Portville's record in the Sectional semis is 5-5, Maple Grove is 11-5, and Randolph is 8-7.

The usual Class D powers are vying for playoff position, and it looks like it will be a dogfight for sure.