This post will serve as a rolling update of Week 10 football action across LebCo. With all six county teams in action this weekend, we’ll be compiling the latest details and highlights as the games unfold.
Be sure to check back often for updates on your favorite teams.
The Annville-Cleona recap was written with information provided by Jackson Hanley.
The Northern Lebanon/ELCO recap was written by Braydin Adams and supported with details from Asher Parham.
The Palmyra recap was written with information provided by assistant editor Gavin Sweeney.
If you like this type of coverage, please let us know by Following us on social media: Twitter/X – @lebcosports1 and Facebook.
For any questions, comments, or discrepancies, please reach out to dan@lebcosports.com.
Friday
ELCO 14, Northern Lebanon 12
It is hard to believe we have reached the end of the 2026 high school football regular season. On Friday, October 30, the Northern Lebanon Vikings made the short trip to Myerstown to take on the ELCO Raiders in a Week 10 matchup with major playoff implications. The stakes were simple: a victory would officially clinch a postseason spot for Northern Lebanon and eliminate ELCO, while a loss would put the Vikings’ playoff hopes in serious jeopardy and give the Raiders an opportunity to secure their own spot.
The game started in ELCO’s favor, as the Raiders came up with a fourth-down stop to give their offense excellent field position. They took advantage of the opportunity, with Noah Williams scoring on a two-yard rushing touchdown to give ELCO an early 7-0 lead.
The Raiders continued to build their advantage. After a 10-yard run by Brinley Donmoyer helped move ELCO into scoring position, Donmoyer finished the drive with a one-yard quarterback keeper. The touchdown extended the Raiders’ lead to 14-0 and left Northern Lebanon facing an early uphill battle.
The Vikings needed a response, but the second quarter featured long, slow drives, with ELCO controlling much of the possession. Northern Lebanon finally found an opportunity when the Raiders fumbled, giving the Vikings the ball at their own 40-yard line. A 30-yard completion moved Northern Lebanon into ELCO territory, setting up a late scoring opportunity.
With just 23 seconds remaining before halftime, Ryan Clemmer connected with Landon Copenhaver on a six-yard touchdown pass. ELCO blocked the extra point, leaving the Vikings trailing by just one touchdown, 14-6, at the break.
Northern Lebanon carried that momentum into the second half. The Vikings recovered another ELCO fumble, giving their offense an opportunity to make it a one-score game. Clemmer took advantage, connecting with Jaxin Bush for a touchdown after a bad snap. The two-point attempt was unsuccessful, but Northern Lebanon had pulled within 14-12 with plenty of football still to play.
The Vikings’ defense continued to deliver important plays in the third quarter. Cameron Tillison recorded a sack, while the defense recovered another fumble to help keep the Raiders from extending their lead. With the score still 14-12 entering the fourth quarter, Northern Lebanon had a real opportunity to complete the comeback.
The final quarter brought plenty of pressure for both sides. A pair of false-start penalties put ELCO in a difficult situation, and the Vikings came up with a key defensive stop. Vinny Moyer added a tackle for loss, giving Northern Lebanon another opportunity to take its first lead of the night.
The Vikings moved the ball into scoring position, with a big completion to Chase Birkhead getting them down to the Raiders’ 24-yard line. Northern Lebanon was within striking distance of taking the lead, but ELCO’s defense came up with a turnover on downs, ending the Vikings’ opportunity.
The Raiders then faced a crucial fourth-and-one situation of their own and managed to pick up the first down behind Donmoyer. That conversion allowed ELCO to take control of the clock and run out the remaining time, securing a hard-fought 14-12 victory.
For Northern Lebanon, the loss brought a difficult end to the regular season after the Vikings had entered the night with a chance to clinch a playoff berth. Their second-half comeback put them in position to steal the rivalry matchup, but they ultimately could not finish the final drive. ELCO, meanwhile, made the plays it needed late and came away with a season-defining win in front of its home crowd.
The Raiders finish the regular season with a 6-4 record, while Northern Lebanon closes at 6-4. Both teams entered the night with postseason hopes on the line, making the result a significant one as the District 3 playoff picture takes shape.
ELCO Stats
Passing: Brinley Donmoyer – 1/3, 7 yds
Rushing: Brinley Donmoyer – 14 carries, 91 yds, 1 TD, 6.5 avg; Gavin Yeiser – 14 carries, 80 yds, 5.7 avg; Noah Williams – 17 carries, 78 yds, 1 TD, 4.6 avg; Dale Kohr – 1 carry, 5 yds; Team – 46 carries, 254 yds, 2 TD, 5.5 avg
Receiving: Gavin Yeiser – 1 reception, 9 yds; Team – 1 reception, 9 yds
Scoring: Noah Williams – 1 rushing TD; Brinley Donmoyer – 1 rushing TD; Team – 2 rushing TD, 2 successful PAT, 14 points
Team Offensive Totals: 261 total offensive yds (254 rushing, 7 passing); 49 offensive plays (46 rushes, 3 pass attempts); 2 rushing TD; 1/3 passing for 7 yds
Defensive Leaders: Jonathan Zimmerman – 13.5 total tackles (4.5 tackles, 9 assists), 1 TFL, 1 penalty drawn; Griffin Kreider – 11.5 total tackles (7.5 tackles, 4 assists); Michael Seifert – 9 tackles (4 tackles, 5 assists); Cameron Tillison – 8.5 total tackles (4.5 tackles, 4 assists), 2 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 penalty drawn; Caiden Behm – 6 tackles (2 tackles, 4 assists); Justin Ambris – 4 tackles (3 tackles, 1 assist), 1 pass defended; Blake Legrande – 4 tackles (2 tackles, 2 assists); Cody Landis – 4 tackles (2 tackles, 2 assists); Dominic Pavenski – 4 reported total tackles (2 tackles, 2 TFL); Lukas Kurpaska – 2 tackles, 1 pass defended; Dale Kohr – 1 tackle; Drew Winters – 1 tackle; Nathaniel Zimmerman – 1 tackle; Noah Williams – 1 tackle
Sacks: Cameron Tillison – 2 sacks
Tackles for Loss: Cameron Tillison – 2 TFL; Dominic Pavenski – 2 TFL; Jonathan Zimmerman – 1 TFL; Team – 5 TFL
Passes Defended: Justin Ambris – 1; Lukas Kurpaska – 1; Team – 2 passes defended
Northern Lebanon Stats
Passing: Ryan Clemmer – 11/17, 148 yds, 2 TD, 0 INT, long 42
Rushing: Brady Ryan – 10 carries, 30 yds, 3.0 avg, long 16; Ryan Clemmer – 8 carries, 9 yds, long 17; Christian Spencer – 3 carries, 8 yds, long 4; Team – 21 carries, 47 yds, 0 TD, 2.2 avg
Receiving: Chase Birkhead – 3 receptions, 86 yds, long 42; Brady Ryan – 2 receptions, 32 yds, long 23; Landon Copenhaver – 3 receptions, 20 yds, 1 TD, long 9; Bryce Yocum – 1 reception, 5 yds; Jaxin Bush – 1 reception, 1 yd, 1 TD; Team – 10 credited receptions, 144 yds, 2 TD
Defensive Leaders: Brady Ryan – 17 tackles (10 solo, 7 assists); Bryce Yocum – 16 tackles (9 solo, 7 assists), 4 TFL, 2 sacks; Christian Spencer – 15 tackles (5 solo, 10 assists); Vinny Moyer – 8 tackles (2 solo, 6 assists), 2 TFL; Jaxin Bush – 8 assists; Landon Graby – 7 tackles (3 solo, 4 assists), 1 fumble recovery; Landon Copenhaver – 6 tackles (2 solo, 4 assists), 1 TFL; Simeon England – 6 tackles (2 solo, 4 assists); Ryan Clemmer – 5 tackles (2 solo, 3 assists), 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery; Sam Kline – 5 assists, 1 forced fumble; Johnny Hilton – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist); Joe Billing – 1 assist; Connor Wallish – 1 assist
Sacks: Bryce Yocum – 2 sacks, 7 yds lost; Team – 2 sacks
Defensive Plays: Ryan Clemmer – 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery; Sam Kline – 1 forced fumble; Landon Graby – 1 fumble recovery; Team – 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 7 TFL
Scoring: Landon Copenhaver – 1 receiving TD (6 yds); Jaxin Bush – 1 receiving TD (1 yd); Ryan Clemmer – 2 passing TD; Team – 2 receiving TD, 12 points
Special Teams: Kickoff Returns: Brady Ryan – 1 return, 28 yds; Christian Spencer – 1 return, 5 yds; Joe Billing – 1 return, 5 yds; Kickoffs: Aaron Wanyo – 3 kickoffs, 135 yds, 45.0 avg, long 60, 1 touchback; Punting: Johnny Hilton – 3 punts, 68 yds, 22.7 avg, long 30; Team – 3 kickoff returns, 38 yds
Team Offensive Totals: 195 total offensive yds (148 passing, 47 rushing); 38 offensive plays; 11/17 passing, 148 yds, 2 TD, 0 INT; 21 carries, 47 yds, 0 TD; 229 all-purpose yds (based on credited receiving statistics)
Team Defensive Totals: 97 tackles (36 solo, 61 assists); 7 TFL; 2 sacks; 2 forced fumbles; 2 fumble recoveries
Palmyra 43, Shippensburg 13
The Palmyra Cougars traveled to Shippensburg on Friday night for their regular-season finale, knowing a victory could be important to their postseason hopes. On a cool but pleasant night, the Cougars came ready to make a statement, putting together a dominant performance on both sides of the ball to close out the regular season with a convincing 43-13 victory over the Greyhounds.
Palmyra wasted little time getting started. On the Cougars’ opening possession, Roman Russek powered his way into the end zone on a four-yard touchdown run, giving Palmyra a 7-0 lead with 9:35 remaining in the first quarter. Just over two minutes later, Alex Csongradi broke loose for a 40-yard touchdown run, extending the advantage to 14-0 with 7:19 left in the quarter.
The Cougars established their ground game early, with Csongradi and Aaron Villafane helping Palmyra control the opening quarter. Shippensburg eventually found an opportunity to swing the momentum when Russek was hit as he threw, resulting in an interception for the Greyhounds. However, the turnover did little to slow the Cougars’ momentum.
Palmyra continued to find success on the ground in the second quarter. Villafane broke through for a 15-yard touchdown run with 4:38 remaining, capping off an impressive 99-yard drive that began after the Cougars made a goal-line stop. Palmyra added to its advantage when Russek connected with Jaxin Robinson for a 29-yard touchdown reception with 1:44 left before halftime, making it 29-0.
The Cougars’ defense continued to make life difficult for the Greyhounds. Cadin Smith delivered a massive hit that stopped Shippensburg’s offensive progress, providing one of the memorable defensive moments of the first half. Palmyra headed into the locker room with a commanding 29-0 lead.
The Cougars picked up right where they left off after halftime. Anthony Pinko came up with an interception at the line of scrimmage, giving Palmyra another opportunity to add to its lead. The offense took advantage, as Robinson broke free for a 20-yard touchdown run with 9:12 remaining in the third quarter. The score pushed the Cougars ahead 36-0.
Shippensburg finally got on the scoreboard late in the third quarter. Mason Costolo connected with Weston Stum for a touchdown reception, cutting the deficit to 36-7 with 2:59 remaining in the quarter.
The Greyhounds continued to fight in the fourth quarter, as Costolo found Drake Eby for a five-yard touchdown reception with 6:47 remaining. However, Palmyra quickly answered and put the game out of reach. Russek connected with Pinko for a 38-yard touchdown reception with 1:44 left, extending the Cougars’ lead to 43-13.
Smith put an exclamation point on the defensive performance, recording a sack to end the game and secure the 43-13 victory.
Palmyra finishes the regular season at 6-4, closing with an impressive road win as the Cougars await word on their postseason fate. The offense showcased its versatility throughout the night, while the defense consistently created problems for Shippensburg. With the regular season now complete, Palmyra will hope its strong finish is enough to earn a spot in the playoffs.
Palmyra Stats
Passing: Roman Russek – 9/16, 178 yds, 2 TD, 1 INT, long 39
Rushing: Aaron Villifane – 15 carries, 100 yds, 1 TD, 6.7 avg, long 15; Alex Csongradi – 7 carries, 82 yds, 1 TD, 11.7 avg, long 40, 1 fumble; Roman Russek – 11 carries, 71 yds, 1 TD, 6.5 avg, long 15; Jaxin Robinson – 4 carries, 34 yds, 1 TD, 8.5 avg, long 20; Mason Kyper – 1 carry, 3 yds; Team – 38 carries, 290 yds, 4 TD, 7.6 avg
Receiving: Jaxin Robinson – 3 receptions, 80 yds, 1 TD, long 35; Anthony Pinko – 1 reception, 39 yds, 1 TD; Sid Harrison – 1 reception, 27 yds; Mason Kyper – 3 receptions, 19 yds; Aaron Villifane – 1 reception, 18 yds; Team – 9 receptions, 183 credited receiving yds, 2 TD
Defensive Leaders: Cadin Smith – 13 combined tackles (7 tackles, 6 assists), 3 TFL, 1 sack; Anthony Pinko – 7 combined tackles (4 tackles, 3 assists), 1 INT; Kyler Sparks – 6 combined tackles (2 tackles, 4 assists), 1 TFL, 1 sack; Louis Loew – 5 combined tackles (2 tackles, 3 assists); Wyatt Fogleman – 4 combined tackles (3 tackles, 1 assist); Sid Harrison – 4 combined tackles (2 tackles, 2 assists); Adam McKelvey – 2 combined tackles (1 tackle, 1 assist); Noah Krupko – 1 assist; Braedon Basehore – 1 assist; Other Palmyra defenders – 12 combined tackles (6 tackles, 6 assists)
Sacks: Cadin Smith – 1 sack; Kyler Sparks – 1 sack; Team – 2 sacks
Tackles for Loss: Cadin Smith – 3 TFL; Kyler Sparks – 1 TFL; Team – 4 TFL
Defensive Plays: Anthony Pinko – 1 INT; Team – 1 INT, 2 sacks, 4 TFL
Scoring: Roman Russek – 1 rushing TD (4 yds), 2 passing TD (29, 39 yds); Alex Csongradi – 1 rushing TD (40 yds); Aaron Villifane – 1 rushing TD (15 yds); Jaxin Robinson – 1 rushing TD (20 yds), 1 receiving TD (29 yds); Anthony Pinko – 1 receiving TD (39 yds); Brenden Crout – 4 PAT credited in kicking statistics; Team – 6 TD, 1 successful two-point conversion, 43 points
Special Teams: Punt Returns: Wyatt Fogleman – 2 returns, 12.0 avg, long 20; Alex Csongradi – 1 return, 3 yds; Other Palmyra returns – 1 return, 21 yds; Kickoffs: Brenden Crout – 6 kickoffs, 224 yds, long 46; Punting: Alex Csongradi – 1 punt, 40 yds; Kicking: Brenden Crout – 4 successful PAT recorded in the kicking table
Team Offensive Totals: 468 total offensive yds (290 rushing, 178 passing); 50 plays reported; 26 first downs; 6/7 on third down (86%); 3 turnovers (2 lost fumbles, 1 INT); 14 penalties for 155 yds
Opponent Offensive Totals: Shippensburg – 206 total offensive yds (153 rushing, 53 passing); 65 plays; 14 first downs; 4/12 on third down (33%); 0/3 on fourth down; 1 turnover (INT); 9 penalties for 86 yds
Annville-Cleona 56, Schuylkill Valley 21
Friday night at the Barn turned into one for the Annville-Cleona record books.
Behind a historic performance from senior Yamaliel Navarro, the Dutchmen defeated Schuylkill Valley 56-21, securing the program’s 300th all-time victory while clinching a District 3 Class 3A playoff berth for the fourth time in five seasons.
Navarro scored six rushing touchdowns, including an electrifying 85-yard run in the fourth quarter, while breaking both the Annville-Cleona and Lebanon County single-game rushing records with 411 yards. The previous county mark belonged to former Lebanon Catholic standout and current A-C athletic director Tommy Long.
The victory improved A-C to 7-3, extending its winning streak to four games. However, the final score hardly tells the entire story, as Schuylkill Valley entered the evening at 8-1 and battled the Dutchmen throughout the opening half.
Annville-Cleona’s defense set the tone early, forcing a three-and-out on the Panthers’ opening possession. Taking over at their own 18-yard line, the Dutchmen put together a scoring drive capped by a 22-yard touchdown run from John Ditzler, giving A-C a 7-0 lead with 4:02 remaining in the first quarter.
Following an unusual delay caused by a drone, Schuylkill Valley answered with a 46-yard touchdown pass, tying the game at 7-7 with 1:49 remaining.
The Dutchmen reclaimed the advantage just four seconds into the second quarter when Navarro scored from two yards out. However, the Panthers responded with an eight-yard rushing touchdown, evening the score at 14-14 with 8:03 remaining before halftime.
From that point forward, Annville-Cleona took control.
Just two offensive plays later, Ditzler connected on a touchdown pass to put the Dutchmen back in front. The extra-point attempt struck the upright, leaving A-C ahead 20-14.
The Dutchmen defense followed with another important stop, giving the offense possession at its own 13-yard line late in the half.
Rather than settling for a six-point halftime advantage, Annville-Cleona put together an impressive 87-yard drive.
The possession eventually reached fourth-and-goal from the Schuylkill Valley one-yard line. Following a timeout, Navarro powered into the end zone with just nine seconds remaining, extending the Dutchmen’s lead to 27-14 at halftime.
With A-C receiving the second-half kickoff, the momentum was firmly on the Dutchmen’s side.
And they wasted little time taking advantage.
Navarro capped the opening drive of the third quarter with another one-yard touchdown run at the 9:15 mark, pushing the lead to 34-14.
The senior wasn’t finished.
With 5:05 remaining in the third, Navarro found the end zone again for his fourth rushing touchdown, extending Annville-Cleona’s advantage to 41-14.
What had been a 14-14 battle early in the second quarter had become a commanding 27-point lead, with the Dutchmen scoring 27 unanswered points.
Schuylkill Valley continued searching for an answer, but Annville-Cleona’s defense kept the Panthers from mounting a comeback.
The fourth quarter belonged to Navarro.
With approximately eight minutes remaining, the senior scored his fifth rushing touchdown of the night. He followed with a successful two-point conversion, stretching the lead to 49-14.
Then came the play that would put an exclamation point on an already remarkable performance.
With approximately five minutes remaining, Navarro broke free for an 85-yard touchdown run, his sixth rushing score of the evening.
The explosive play pushed Annville-Cleona’s lead to 56-14 and helped Navarro establish new school and Lebanon County records for rushing yards in a single game, surpassing the county mark previously held by Long.
In addition to his record-breaking rushing performance, Navarro accounted for an incredible 38 points through six touchdowns and a successful two-point conversion.
With the outcome decided, the Dutchmen began rotating reserves into the lineup. Schuylkill Valley added a late touchdown with 2:45 remaining, producing the 56-21 final score.
While Navarro’s individual accomplishments will understandably receive much of the attention, Friday night’s victory was equally significant for the Annville-Cleona program.
The Dutchmen earned their 300th all-time victory, a milestone that added even more meaning to the regular-season finale.
The win also secured A-C’s fourth District 3 Class 3A playoff appearance in five seasons, continuing a strong stretch for Head Coach Matt Gingrich and his program.
After sitting at 3-3 midway through the season, Annville-Cleona closed the regular season with four consecutive victories over Pequea Valley, Kutztown, Hamburg and Schuylkill Valley to finish 7-3.
The Dutchmen will now have an opportunity to rest and prepare for postseason competition. The District 3 Class 3A playoff field will have a bye next weekend, with postseason action scheduled to begin Friday, November 13.
Final seedings and matchups remain to be determined, with Saturday’s contest between Wyomissing and Lampeter-Strasburg expected to help clarify the playoff picture.
For Annville-Cleona, Friday night represented much more than another victory.
A record-breaking performance from Navarro, the 300th win in school history and another trip to the District 3 playoffs made it a memorable regular-season finale for the Dutchmen.
Game coverage provided by Jackson Hanley for LebCoSports.com.
Coach Gingrich’s Post-Game Thoughts
On the team’s overall performance:
“The boys played a great game tonight, and I’m very proud of them. It was the most complete game we’ve played all year, and we’ve been trending in that direction.”
On winning the section championship and advancing to the postseason:
“It’s great to win a section championship after everything that’s happened this year. I’m very proud of them for that. We get two more weeks together, and then we’ll see where we’re at.”
On the offensive line’s outstanding performance:
“I’m very proud of our tight end, Max Ortwein; tackles Daniel Shuey and Will Green; guards Jaxon Speece and Kaidavin Ginting; and center Tanner Copenhaver for their blocking. We had over 600 yards of offense tonight, including 411 rushing yards and six touchdowns from Yama. It was a total team effort from those guys. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
On the team’s accomplishments and moving forward:
“I’m so proud of these guys and looking forward to keeping things going. I couldn’t ask anything more from my kids.”
Annville-Cleona Stats
Passing: John Ditzler – 1/1, 27 yds, 0 TD, 0 INT
Rushing: Yamaliel Navarro – 36 carries, 411 yds, 6 TD, 11.4 avg, long 86; John Ditzler – 6 carries, 75 yds, 2 TD, 12.5 avg; Levi Kreider – 2 carries, 42 yds, 21.0 avg; Devon Englehart – 5 carries, 38 yds, 7.6 avg; Tyler Gingrich – 3 carries, 12 yds, 4.0 avg; Team – 52 carries, 578 yds, 8 TD, 11.1 avg
Receiving: Danny Shay – 1 reception, 27 yds; Team – 1 reception, 27 yds
Defensive Leaders: Danny Shay – 14 tackles (7 solo, 7 assists), 2 TFL; Max Ortwein – 14 tackles (10 solo, 4 assists), 3 TFL; Kaidavin Ginting – 12 tackles (7 solo, 5 assists), 1 TFL; Tyler Gingrich – 11 tackles (5 solo, 6 assists), 1 pass defended; Daniel Shuey – 11 tackles (6 solo, 5 assists), 2 TFL, 1 sack; Jaxon Speece – 9 tackles (4 solo, 5 assists); Maddox White – 7 tackles (3 solo, 4 assists); Jaylynn Moyer – 6 tackles (1 solo, 5 assists), 1 TFL; Isaac Morse – 6 tackles (3 solo, 3 assists); Yamaliel Navarro – 4 solo tackles; Logan Radocha – 3 solo tackles; Devon Englehart – 3 tackles (2 solo, 1 assist); Dominick Smith – 3 tackles (1 solo, 2 assists); Austin Gingrich – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist)
Sacks: Daniel Shuey – 1 sack
Defensive Plays: Tyler Gingrich – 1 pass defended; Team – 1 pass defended
Scoring: Yamaliel Navarro – 6 rushing TD, 1 successful two-point conversion, 38 points; John Ditzler – 2 rushing TD, 12 points; Gabriel Stern – 6/7 PAT, 6 points; Team – 8 rushing TD, 6 PAT, 1 successful two-point conversion, 56 points
Special Teams: Kicking: Gabriel Stern – 6/7 PAT; Kickoff Returns: Yamaliel Navarro – 3 returns, 66 yds, 22.0 avg; Team – 66 kickoff return yds
Team Offensive Totals: 605 total offensive yds (578 rushing, 27 passing); 53 offensive plays; 52 carries for 578 yds, 8 rushing TD; 1/1 passing for 27 yds; 671 all-purpose yds
Team Defensive Totals: 105 tackles (57 solo, 48 assists); 9 TFL; 1 sack; 1 pass defended; 0 recorded INT; 0 recorded fumble recoveries
Cedar Crest 31, Reading 22
The Cedar Crest Falcons traveled to Reading on Friday night looking to finish the 2026 regular season on a positive note. Coming off a heartbreaking loss to Penn Manor, the Falcons were determined to bounce back and carry some momentum into the postseason.
Standing in their way was a Reading team looking to finish its own season strong. The Red Knights provided plenty of resistance, but Cedar Crest responded with a strong second-half performance to secure a hard-fought 31-22 victory.
The Falcons struck first in the opening quarter, leaning on their rushing attack to move the football. Skyler Shermancapped the scoring drive with a 21-yard touchdown run, and Gabe Kaighn added the extra point to give Cedar Crest an early 7-0 advantage.
Reading answered with a big play through the air, connecting on a 65-yard touchdown pass. The Red Knights successfully converted the two-point attempt, taking an 8-7 lead.
The Red Knights continued finding success through the passing game in the second quarter, adding a 38-yard touchdown reception to extend their advantage. The two-point conversion failed, but Reading carried a 14-7 lead into halftime.
Despite trailing by a touchdown, Cedar Crest remained within striking distance and came out of the locker room ready to respond.
The Falcons’ defense provided the first spark of the second half, recording a sack in the end zone for a safety. The play cut Reading’s advantage to 14-9 and gave Cedar Crest some much-needed momentum.
Quarterback Steven Reyes then helped the Falcons capitalize on the opportunity, finishing an offensive possession with a two-yard touchdown run. Kaighn connected on the extra point, putting Cedar Crest back in front, 16-14.
With the game moving into the fourth quarter, the Falcons looked to build on their narrow advantage.
Reyes once again found the end zone, this time scoring on an eight-yard rushing touchdown. Another successful extra point extended Cedar Crest’s lead to 23-14.
However, Reading wasn’t ready to go away quietly.
The Red Knights answered with a 12-yard touchdown pass and successfully converted the two-point attempt, trimming the Falcons’ advantage to just one point at 23-22.
With the outcome hanging in the balance, Cedar Crest needed another response.
And the Falcons delivered.
Reyes powered across the goal line on a one-yard touchdown run, his third rushing score of the evening. The quarterback then connected with Sherman for a successful two-point conversion, pushing Cedar Crest’s advantage to 31-22.
That would stand as the final score, giving the Falcons an important victory to close out their regular-season schedule.
For Cedar Crest, the rushing attack played a major role in the win. Sherman led the Falcons with 100 yards on 16 carries, including his 21-yard touchdown run, while Reyes added 24 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
Through the air, Reyes completed 10 of 21 passes for 148 yards. Terrance Wilson led the receiving corps with 36 yards, while Mason Cevette added 28 yards and Kai Speaks contributed 25. The Falcons finished with 266 yards of total offense.
Defensively, Cedar Crest’s third-quarter safety proved to be one of the game’s biggest moments, helping the Falcons erase their halftime deficit and take control.
The victory was an encouraging response following the previous week’s difficult finish against Penn Manor. After watching a late lead slip away in that contest, Cedar Crest found itself facing another fourth-quarter challenge against Reading but delivered the points it needed to secure the win.
The Falcons finish the regular season with a 7-3 record, continuing a successful campaign that has required adjustments following the season-ending injury to standout running back Isaiah Zimmerman.
With the regular season now complete, Cedar Crest will turn its attention to the District 3 Class 6A playoffs, looking to build on Friday night’s victory and carry its momentum into postseason competition.
Cedar Crest Stats
Passing: Steven Reyes – 10/21, 148 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT
Rushing: Skyler Sherman – 16 carries, 100 yds, 1 TD, 0 fumbles; Steven Reyes – 10 carries, 24 yds, 3 TD, 0 fumbles; Eddiel Nunez – 1 carry, -1 yd, 0 TD, 1 fumble; Jackson Smith – 1 carry, -5 yds, 0 TD, 0 fumbles; Team – 28 carries, 118 yds, 4 TD, 1 rushing fumble
Receiving: Terrance Wilson – 1 reception, 36 yds, 1 fumble; Mason Cevette – 2 receptions, 28 yds; Kai Speaks – 2 receptions, 25 yds; Skyler Sherman – 2 receptions, 19 yds; Kasen Dudek – 1 reception, 18 yds; Antonio Tirado – 1 reception, 14 yds; Jackson Smith – 1 reception, 8 yds; Team – 10 receptions, 148 yds, 0 TD, 1 receiving fumble
Scoring: Steven Reyes – 3 rushing TD (2, 8, 1 yds), 1 successful two-point conversion pass; Skyler Sherman – 1 rushing TD (21 yds), 1 successful two-point conversion reception; Gabe Kaighn – 3/3 PAT; Team Defense – 1 safety; Team – 4 rushing TD, 3 PAT, 1 successful two-point conversion, 1 safety, 31 points
Kicking: Gabe Kaighn – 3/3 PAT, 0 FG attempts
Team Offensive Totals: 266 total offensive yds (148 passing, 118 rushing); 49 offensive plays (28 rushes, 21 pass attempts); 10/21 passing, 148 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT; 28 carries, 118 yds, 4 rushing TD; 2 recorded fumbles (lost fumbles not specified)
Opponent Scoring: Reading – 65-yard passing TD (2-point conversion good); 38-yard passing TD (2-point conversion failed); 12-yard passing TD (2-point conversion good); Team – 3 passing TD, 2 successful two-point conversions, 22 points
Defensive Leaders: Garrett Starry – 12 tackles (3 solo, 9 assists), 3 TFL, 1 sack, 2 QB hurries; CJ Hallman – 11 tackles (3 solo, 8 assists), 1 TFL, 0.5 sack, 1 QB hurry; Kasen Dudek – 11 tackles (2 solo, 9 assists), 3 TFL, 0.5 sack, 3 QB hurries; Ben Garland – 10 tackles (4 solo, 6 assists); Jackson Chernich – 8 tackles (2 solo, 6 assists), 2 TFL, 2 QB hurries; Antonio Tirado – 6 tackles (3 solo, 3 assists), 1 INT; Jordan Pfaff – 6 tackles (6 assists), 1 TFL, 5 QB hurries; Mason Cevette – 6 tackles (1 solo, 5 assists), 3 TFL, 0.5 sack, 2 QB hurries; Damyen Derr – 5 tackles (5 assists), 4 TFL, 1.5 sacks; Griffin Schomp – 5 tackles (5 assists), 5 QB hurries; Skyler Sherman – 3 tackles (3 assists), 1 INT; Terrance Wilson – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist); John Sherk – 2 tackles (2 assists); Rocky Mercado – 1 assist; Max Funderburk – 1 assist; Axel Roman – 1 assist, 1 TFL, 0.5 sack
Sacks: Damyen Derr – 1.5 sacks; Garrett Starry – 1 sack; CJ Hallman – 0.5 sack; Kasen Dudek – 0.5 sack; Mason Cevette – 0.5 sack; Axel Roman – 0.5 sack; Team – 4.5 combined individual sack credits
Tackles for Loss: Damyen Derr – 4 TFL; Garrett Starry – 3 TFL; Kasen Dudek – 3 TFL; Mason Cevette – 3 TFL; Jackson Chernich – 2 TFL; CJ Hallman – 1 TFL; Jordan Pfaff – 1 TFL; Axel Roman – 1 TFL; Team – 18 TFL
Quarterback Hurries: Jordan Pfaff – 5; Griffin Schomp – 5; Kasen Dudek – 3; Garrett Starry – 2; Jackson Chernich – 2; Mason Cevette – 2; CJ Hallman – 1; Team – 20 QB hurries
Defensive Plays: Skyler Sherman – 1 INT; Antonio Tirado – 1 INT; Team – 2 INT; No forced fumbles or fumble recoveries recorded
Team Defensive Totals: 90 tackles (19 solo, 71 assists); 18 TFL; 4.5 combined individual sack credits; 20 QB hurries; 2 INT
Ephrata 52, Lebanon 8
The Lebanon Cedars welcomed Ephrata to town Friday night for their final game of the 2026 high school football season. After a challenging fall, Lebanon was looking to finish on a positive note against a talented Mountaineers squad that entered the matchup with a 7-2 record.
While Ephrata ultimately came away with a 52-8 victory, the Cedars continued battling and found some offensive success in the second half, providing a few encouraging moments to close out the season.
Lebanon’s defense delivered an early highlight when the Mountaineers fumbled on their opening possession following a Cedars punt. Lebanon recovered the loose ball, creating an opportunity to seize some early momentum.
However, Ephrata eventually broke through on special teams, returning a punt for a touchdown to take a 7-0 lead with 5:05 remaining in the first quarter.
The Mountaineers added another touchdown through their rushing attack with approximately three minutes remaining, extending the advantage to 14-0.
Ephrata continued building its lead early in the second quarter, scoring on another rushing touchdown just 11 seconds into the period to make it 21-0.
Following a Lebanon punt, a long Mountaineers run set up another touchdown with 8:26 remaining before halftime. Ephrata added scores at the 3:48 and 2:39 marks, with the latter coming after an interception, to take a 42-0 advantage.
The Cedars continued working to establish their offense, picking up a first down late in the half before a fumble ended the possession.
Ephrata added a field goal midway through the third quarter, but Lebanon began finding some success moving the football.
Quarterback Lucas Ramos connected with Henne Cortes on an impressive 62-yard completion, moving the Cedars all the way to the Ephrata 16-yard line. Although a turnover eventually ended the promising drive, the big play provided a glimpse of what Lebanon’s passing attack could accomplish.
The Cedars’ defense then delivered another highlight, forcing a safety to put Lebanon on the scoreboard at 45-2.
With the offense beginning to find its rhythm, Ramos connected with Chris Robles on another big passing play late in the third quarter, keeping the Cedars moving in the right direction.
Lebanon eventually found the end zone when Ramos completed a short touchdown pass to Cortes, rewarding the offense for its continued effort. A successful two-point conversion was wiped away by a holding penalty, leaving the Cedars with eight points.
Ephrata added another touchdown before the final whistle to secure the 52-8 victory.
Despite the result, Lebanon’s second-half performance offered some encouraging moments. Ramos showed his ability to stretch the field with completions to Cortes and Robles, while the defense contributed a turnover recovery and a safety against one of the league’s stronger teams.
The loss closes out a difficult 0-10 season for Lebanon, but the Cedars continued competing through the final whistle. The late offensive production provided a positive note for a program looking to build toward the future.
As Lebanon turns its attention to the offseason, the experience gained throughout the fall and the emergence of additional offensive options will provide opportunities for continued development heading into 2027.
LebCo High School Football: Week 9 Results
2026 LebCo Football Team-by-Team Season Outlooks
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