This post will serve as a rolling update of Week 8 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 were written with information provided by Jackson Hanley.
The Northern Lebanon recap was written by Braydin Adams.
The ELCO recap were written with information provided by Asher Parham.
The Cedar Crest & Palmyra recaps were 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
Annville-Cleona 56, Kutztown 22
The Annville-Cleona Dutchmen welcomed Kutztown to town Friday night for their 2026 Homecoming game, looking to build on last week’s impressive shutout victory over Pequea Valley. With the regular season winding down and postseason positioning becoming increasingly important, the Dutchmen had plenty to play for beyond the Homecoming festivities.
While the game started slowly for A-C, the Dutchmen eventually found their rhythm, using explosive offensive plays and a pair of defensive touchdowns to pull away from the Cougars for a convincing 56-22 victory.
The early going was anything but comfortable for Annville-Cleona. Kutztown came ready to compete, and the Cougars kept the pressure on the Dutchmen throughout the opening stages of the game.
With Kutztown holding a 14-13 advantage in the second quarter, the Dutchmen needed a spark. The defense delivered in a big way.
With 4:02 remaining before halftime, Max Ortwein intercepted a Kutztown pass and returned it for a touchdown, putting Annville-Cleona back in front, 20-14.
The Dutchmen continued to apply pressure, with the Homecoming crowd getting involved as Kutztown attempted to respond. Facing a second-and-two situation from its own 33-yard line, the Cougars were disrupted by the crowd noise and committed a false-start penalty.
A-C took advantage of the momentum shift.
With 1:17 remaining in the half, senior Yama Navarro connected on a seven-yard touchdown pass, extending the Dutchmen’s advantage to 27-14.
But the Dutchmen weren’t finished.
Just 12 seconds later, Danny Shay came up with another interception and returned it for a touchdown. It was Annville-Cleona’s second pick-six of the quarter, and suddenly the Dutchmen had turned a tight contest into a commanding 34-14 advantage.
The two defensive touchdowns, combined with Navarro’s late scoring pass, completely changed the complexion of the game heading into halftime.
With A-C firmly in control, the Homecoming festivities provided another memorable moment as Dana Hoover was crowned the 2026 Homecoming Queen.
When the teams returned to the field, the Dutchmen wasted little time picking up where they left off.
Annville-Cleona opened the second half with possession at the Kutztown 35-yard line, putting the offense in excellent position to continue building its lead.
With 7:14 remaining in the third quarter, Navarro broke free for a 34-yard touchdown run, stretching the advantage to 41-14.
The Dutchmen continued to find success on the ground, with Devon Englehart powering his way into the end zone from four yards out later in the quarter. A successful two-point conversion pushed the lead to 49-14 with 3:46 remaining.
By that point, Annville-Cleona had taken complete control, scoring 36 unanswered points after trailing 14-13 earlier in the contest.
As light rain began to fall late in the third quarter, the Dutchmen carried their 49-14 advantage into the final period.
With the outcome well in hand, Annville-Cleona began rotating in its reserves, giving additional players an opportunity to contribute to the Homecoming victory.
Freshman Tyler Gingrich added to the celebration with a fourth-quarter touchdown, extending the Dutchmen’s lead to 56-14 with 7:39 remaining.
Kutztown continued to compete and found the end zone once more with approximately two minutes remaining, adding a successful two-point conversion to make the final score 56-22.
For Annville-Cleona, the victory was another impressive performance as the Dutchmen continued building momentum during the final stretch of the regular season.
The offense produced 42 points, with Navarro leading the way through both the air and on the ground. The senior connected on a touchdown pass before adding a 34-yard rushing score in the third quarter, continuing his outstanding season.
Navarro’s efforts were recognized as he received the Steve Johnson Memorial Award, adding another special moment to the Homecoming celebration.
While the offense eventually found its rhythm, the defense provided the game’s biggest turning point. The interception returns by Ortwein and Shay helped transform a one-point deficit into a comfortable halftime advantage, giving the Dutchmen control of a game that had been tightly contested.
The defensive scores were especially significant considering Annville-Cleona’s performance the previous week, when the Dutchmen shut out Pequea Valley 34-0. Over the past two games, A-C’s defense has continued to make a major impact, not only limiting opposing offenses but also creating scoring opportunities of its own.
The 56-point outburst also demonstrated the Dutchmen’s ability to generate offense in multiple ways, with contributions coming from the passing game, rushing attack and defense.
The victory improves Annville-Cleona to 5-3 on the season, giving the Dutchmen their second consecutive win and putting them in a stronger position as they continue battling for a postseason berth.
A-C will now turn its attention to another important matchup in Week 9 when the Dutchmen travel to face Hamburg, before returning home to close out the regular season against Schuylkill Valley.
With two games remaining and plenty still at stake, Annville-Cleona will look to carry its recent momentum into the final stretch of the season.
Annville-Cleona Stats
Passing: John Ditzler – 1/2, 10 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT; Team – 1/2, 10 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT
Rushing: Yamaliel Navarro – 15 carries, 184 yds, 4 TD, 12.3 avg; Devon Englehart – 11 carries, 101 yds, 1 TD, 9.2 avg; John Ditzler – 4 carries, 22 yds; Tyler Gingrich – 4 carries, 19 yds, 1 TD; Bode Garney – 1 carry, 10 yds; Danny Shay – 1 carry, 10 yds; Bennett Putt – 1 carry, 5 yds; Team – 37 carries, 351 yds, 6 TD, 9.5 avg
Receiving: Max Ortwein – 1 reception, 10 yds; Team – 1 reception, 10 yds
Defensive Leaders: Tyler Gingrich – 14 tackles (10 solo, 4 assists), 3 TFL; Danny Shay – 10 tackles (6 solo, 4 assists), 6 TFL, 1 INT; Jaxon Speece – 10 tackles (5 solo, 5 assists), 1 TFL, 1 sack; Kaidavin Ginting – 9 tackles (4 solo, 5 assists), 5 TFL; Daniel Shuey – 7 tackles (5 solo, 2 assists), 2 TFL; Maddox White – 6 tackles (3 solo, 3 assists), 1 TFL; Logan Radocha – 6 tackles (4 solo, 2 assists), 2 TFL; Devon Englehart – 5 tackles (3 solo, 2 assists), 2 TFL; Max Ortwein – 5 tackles (3 solo, 2 assists), 1 TFL, 1 INT; Dominic Nash – 3 tackles (1 solo, 2 assists), 1 TFL; Isaac Morse – 3 tackles (2 solo, 1 assist), 1 TFL; Austin Gingrich – 3 tackles (2 solo, 1 assist); Landen Loehr – 3 tackles (2 solo, 1 assist); Jack Cantor – 2 solo tackles; Jaylynn Moyer – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist); Carter Rhodes – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist); Lane Peters – 1 solo tackle; Mason Boltz – 1 assist; Landon Sanchez – 1 assist; Justin Pluck – 1 solo tackle; Cameron Blauch – 1 solo tackle; Tanner Copenhaver – 1 solo tackle
Sacks: Jaxon Speece – 1 sack, 3 yds lost; Team – 1 sack
Defensive Plays: Danny Shay – 1 INT, 23 return yds, 1 defensive TD; Max Ortwein – 1 INT, 5 return yds, 1 defensive TD; Team – 2 INT, 28 interception return yds, 2 defensive TD
Scoring: Yamaliel Navarro – 4 rushing TD, 1 successful two-point conversion; Devon Englehart – 1 rushing TD; Tyler Gingrich – 1 rushing TD; Danny Shay – 1 interception return TD; Max Ortwein – 1 interception return TD; Bennett Putt – 6/7 PAT; Team – 8 TD, 1 two-point conversion, 6 PAT, 56 points
Special Teams: Punt Returns: Dominic Nash – 1 return, 18 yds; Kicking: Bennett Putt – 6/7 PAT; Team – 18 punt return yds
Team Totals: 361 total offensive yds (351 rushing, 10 passing); 39 offensive plays; 37 carries for 351 yds and 6 rushing TD; 1/2 passing for 10 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT; 407 all-purpose yds; Defense – 96 tackles (58 solo, 38 assists), 25 TFL, 1 sack, 2 INT, 2 defensive TD
Coach Gingrich’s Post-Game Thoughts
On the team’s overall performance:
“We played much better tonight compared to how we normally play against Kutztown. Kutztown usually gives us fits on defense, and they did again tonight. Their best player was out after the second quarter, but we did much better overall.”
On the defensive effort:
“We had two pick-sixes, one by Max Ortwein and one by Danny Shay. We also did very well on offense, which helped out the defense.”
On the offensive execution:
“We had two bad possessions with turnovers, an interception in the end zone and a fumbled pitch. Besides that, we scored every time, so we played well.”
On Yama Navarro’s recognition and the challenges ahead:
“I’m really proud of Yama for earning the Steve Johnson Memorial Award. It’s a well-deserved honor, but we also know we have two big games ahead of us, and our focus now is on finishing the season strong.”
Lampeter-Strasburg 38, ELCO 14
The ELCO Raiders faced one of their toughest challenges of the season Friday night as they welcomed perennial powerhouse Lampeter-Strasburg to Myerstown. Coming off an explosive Homecoming victory over Octorara, the Raiders were looking to keep their momentum going in front of the home crowd against a Pioneers team that has established itself as one of the top programs in District 3.
Unfortunately for ELCO, Lampeter-Strasburg wasted little time taking control of the game. However, the Raiders continued to fight, putting together a pair of fourth-quarter touchdowns despite facing a significant deficit.
The Pioneers struck first with 8:21 remaining in the opening quarter, connecting on a 48-yard touchdown pass to take a 7-0 lead.
Lampeter-Strasburg’s defense quickly made its presence felt as well. A sack on ELCO’s next possession left the Raiders facing fourth-and-28, making it difficult to establish any offensive momentum.
The Pioneers continued to disrupt the Raiders’ offense, recording another tackle for loss midway through the quarter. ELCO later attempted a fake punt with 3:53 remaining, but the play was unsuccessful, giving Lampeter-Strasburg another opportunity to add to its lead.
The Pioneers took advantage of their field position, eventually connecting on a field goal with 47 seconds remaining to extend their advantage to 10-0.
Lampeter-Strasburg continued to find success in the second quarter, adding a 33-yard rushing touchdown with 7:39 remaining before halftime.
ELCO showed some signs of life shortly afterward when Gavin Yeiser broke loose for a 40-yard run, giving the Raiders one of their biggest offensive plays of the half. However, the Pioneers’ defense prevented ELCO from turning the opportunity into points.
Lampeter-Strasburg added another touchdown before halftime, sending the Raiders into the locker room trailing 24-0.
The Pioneers continued to control the pace of the game after the break, using a steady rushing attack to move the ball down the field. Rather than relying solely on explosive plays, Lampeter-Strasburg consistently picked up yardage and kept the Raiders’ defense on the field.
With 7:51 remaining in the third quarter, the Pioneers capped another drive with a rushing touchdown, extending their lead to 31-0.
Despite the difficult circumstances, ELCO refused to go away quietly.
The Raiders finally broke through just seconds into the fourth quarter, finding the end zone on a rushing touchdown with 11:57 remaining to get on the scoreboard.
Lampeter-Strasburg responded with another productive possession, highlighted by a 40-yard run with 10:14 remaining. The Pioneers eventually finished the drive with a 10-yard touchdown pass at the 7:07 mark, extending their advantage to 38-7.
ELCO continued to push offensively, with Yeiser once again helping lead the charge.
The Raiders moved the ball through the air with a 19-yard completion involving Yeiser with 6:45 remaining. Just 21 seconds later, Yeiser broke loose for a 20-yard run as ELCO continued driving down the field.
With 4:02 remaining, Yeiser finished the possession with a 15-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Raiders their second score of the fourth quarter and making it 38-14.
Neither team scored again, leaving Lampeter-Strasburg with the 38-14 victory.
For ELCO, the loss came against a talented Pioneers team that controlled much of the game through its ability to move the ball consistently and make timely defensive stops.
Still, the Raiders showed some encouraging signs, particularly in the fourth quarter when they finally began finding success offensively.
Yeiser provided several of ELCO’s biggest plays, including a 40-yard run in the first half and a 20-yard rush that helped set up his fourth-quarter touchdown. His ability to create explosive plays gave the Raiders opportunities even against a difficult Lampeter-Strasburg defense.
ELCO’s two fourth-quarter touchdowns also demonstrated the team’s willingness to continue competing despite the early deficit. After being held scoreless through three quarters, the Raiders found ways to move the ball and finish drives late in the contest.
The loss drops ELCO to 4-4 on the season, but with the toughest portion of its schedule now behind it, the Raiders still have an opportunity to finish the regular season on a positive note.
ELCO will look to bounce back next Friday when the Raiders face Donegal, before closing out the regular season against Northern Lebanon in what could be an important final matchup for both teams.
Cedar Crest 30, Dallastown 8
The Cedar Crest Falcons welcomed the Dallastown Wildcats to town for Week 8 on Friday night, with Senior Night adding extra meaning to the Falcons’ final home game of the regular season. Coming off a 41-6 victory over J.P. McCaskey, Cedar Crest looked to keep its momentum going as the season entered its final stretch. However, the Falcons had to adjust without senior running back Isaiah Zimmerman, who was sidelined with an injury. Eddiel Nunez stepped into the starting running back role as Cedar Crest looked to send its seniors out with a win.
The Falcons received the opening kickoff and began moving the ball, with Eddiel Nunez putting together a nice run on the opening drive. A low snap led to a fumble that Steven Reyes recovered, but Cedar Crest was forced to punt. The Falcons caught a break when Dallastown was flagged for roughing the punter, giving Cedar Crest a first down. The offense made the Wildcats pay, as Reyes delivered a perfect pass to Kai Speaks for a 45-yard touchdown. A low snap prevented the Falcons from adding the extra point, leaving Cedar Crest ahead 6-0.
The defense came out ready to respond, as a big hit from Garrett Starry helped force a three-and-out on Dallastown’s first possession. Cedar Crest tried to be aggressive on fourth down during its next drive but could not convert, handing the Wildcats the ball at their own 40-yard line. Dallastown then flipped the field with a beautiful punt from Elliott Jones, pinning the Falcons at their own one-yard line. Cedar Crest was unable to escape the difficult field position, resulting in a safety that cut the lead to 6-2.
After Cedar Crest answered with a strong kickoff that backed Dallastown up to its own 15, the Wildcats found a spark early in the second quarter. Their quarterback escaped a sack and found Izaya Adcock for a deep completion. The Falcons defense held firm, with Griffin Schomp helping deliver a key stop. Dallastown went for it on fourth down, but a sack by the Falcons defense forced a turnover on downs.
Cedar Crest’s special teams continued to make an impact, with another strong punt pinning the Wildcats inside their own five-yard line. Later, a nice punt return from Antonio Tirado gave the Falcons possession at the Dallastown 20. Cedar Crest turned the opportunity into points, as Gabe Kaighn connected on a field goal with three seconds remaining before halftime. The Falcons carried a 9-2 advantage into the break.
Dallastown received the second-half kickoff, but Cedar Crest immediately forced another three-and-out. The Falcons then pulled out the trick play, using a flea-flicker to connect on a 35-yard completion and move the ball to the one-yard line. Even after a sack pushed Cedar Crest backward, Reyes found Speaks in one-on-one coverage, and the senior wide receiver came down with a spectacular, almost ballerina-like catch for a touchdown. The successful score extended the Falcons’ lead to 16-2 with five minutes remaining in the third quarter.
The Wildcats refused to go away quietly. Corbin Myers connected with Adcock for a 55-yard completion to move Dallastown deep into Falcons territory. Myers found Adcock again on the drive, this time for a touchdown, cutting the deficit to 16-8 before the end of the third quarter.
Cedar Crest had an answer waiting in the fourth. Kai Speaks delivered a big kickoff return, setting up the Falcons’ offense for another scoring opportunity. Reyes took advantage, hitting Carlo Woellner-Davis on a slant route for a touchdown to make it 23-8.
The Falcons defense kept the momentum rolling on Dallastown’s next possession. On the Wildcats’ first play, Eli Beard leaped to intercept a pass, giving Cedar Crest the ball at the Dallastown 40-yard line. Reyes then faked a handoff to help drain the clock before finding Skyler Sherman for a deep completion into the Wildcats’ 30-yard line.
Cedar Crest continued to work the clock, taking the game down to the 3:30 mark before Reyes connected with Speaks once more. The senior hauled in another jumping touchdown catch, putting the finishing touch on the Falcons’ 30-8 Senior Night victory.
The win moves Cedar Crest to 6-2 on the season and gives the Falcons another boost heading into the final stretch of the regular season. Despite missing Zimmerman, the offense found ways to score through the air, while the defense and special teams delivered important plays throughout the night. Speaks’ three touchdown receptions highlighted a memorable performance in the Falcons’ final home game.
Cedar Crest will now hit the road next Friday to face Penn Manor as the Falcons look to carry their Senior Night momentum into Week 9.
Cedar Crest Stats
Passing: Steven Reyes – 16/22, 284 yds, 4 TD, 0 INT; Team – 16/22, 284 yds, 4 TD, 0 INT
Rushing: Steven Reyes – 10 carries, 63 yds; Eddiel Nunez – 13 carries, 59 yds; Ben Danz – 2 carries, 7 yds; Jackson Smith – 2 carries, -2 yds; Eli Beard – 2 carries, -2 yds; Skyler Sherman – 4 carries, -11 yds; Team – 33 carries, 114 yds, 0 TD, 0 fumbles
Receiving: Kai Speaks – 6 receptions, 157 yds, 3 TD; Skyler Sherman – 1 reception, 36 yds; Jackson Smith – 2 receptions, 32 yds; Mason Cevette – 4 receptions, 29 yds; Terrance Wilson – 1 reception, 14 yds; Carlo Woellner-Davis – 1 reception, 10 yds, 1 TD; Eddiel Nunez – 1 reception, 6 yds; Team – 16 receptions, 284 yds, 4 TD, 0 fumbles
Scoring: Kai Speaks – 3 receiving TD (67, 15, 15 yds); Carlo Woellner-Davis – 1 receiving TD (10 yds); Steven Reyes – 4 passing TD; Gabe Kaighn – 1 field goal (27 yds), 3 successful PAT; Team – 4 TD, 1 FG, 3 PAT, 30 points
Kicking: Gabe Kaighn – 27-yard FG, 3 successful PAT
Team Offensive Totals: 398 total offensive yds (284 passing, 114 rushing); 55 offensive plays; 16/22 passing for 284 yds, 4 TD, 0 INT; 33 carries for 114 yds; 4 offensive TD; 0 recorded fumbles
Defensive Leaders: CJ Hallman – 9 tackles (1 solo, 8 assists), 2 TFL, 2 QB hurries; Garrett Starry – 7 tackles (7 assists), 2 QB hurries, 1 forced fumble; Damyen Derr – 5 tackles (5 assists), 3 TFL, 0.5 sack, 2 QB hurries; Hayden Moore – 5 tackles (5 assists); Mason Cevette – 5 tackles (5 assists), 1 TFL, 1 QB hurry; Eli Beard – 4 tackles (3 solo, 1 assist), 1 INT; Antonio Tirado – 4 tackles (1 solo, 3 assists); Kasen Dudek – 4 tackles (4 assists), 1 QB hurry; Jordan Pfaff – 4 tackles (4 assists), 1 TFL, 0.5 sack; Jackson Chernich – 3 tackles (3 assists), 2 TFL, 0.5 sack, 1 QB hurry, 1 fumble recovery; Max Funderburk – 2 tackles (2 solo); Griffin Schomp – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist), 1 TFL, 2 QB hurries; Jackson Smith – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist); Ben Garland – 1 tackle (1 assist); Rocky Mercado – 1 tackle (1 solo)
Sacks: Damyen Derr – 0.5 sack; Jackson Chernich – 0.5 sack; Jordan Pfaff – 0.5 sack; Combined individual credits – 1.5 sacks
Defensive Plays: Eli Beard – 1 INT, no return; Garrett Starry – 1 forced fumble; Jackson Chernich – 1 fumble recovery, no return; Team – 1 INT, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 10 QB hurries
Team Defensive Totals: 58 tackles (10 solo, 48 assists); 10 TFL; 1.5 combined individual sack credits; 10 QB hurries; 1 INT; 1 forced fumble; 1 fumble recovery
Opponent Offensive Totals: Dallastown – 25 rushing yds, 141 passing yds, 166 total offensive yds
Palmyra 40, Lower Dauphin 34
Following storms that accompanied a cold front through the area, field conditions were wet Friday night at Buck Swank Stadium. However, the Palmyra Cougars were determined to make the most of their home-field advantage as they welcomed rival Lower Dauphin for an important Mid-Penn Keystone Division matchup.
After suffering several heartbreaking losses in recent weeks, Palmyra entered the night at 3-4 with an opportunity to return to .500, claim bragging rights over its rival and strengthen its postseason positioning.
What followed was an exciting back-and-forth contest featuring explosive rushing plays, big defensive stops and special teams highlights as the Cougars held on for a thrilling 40-34 victory.
Palmyra was forced to punt on its opening possession, and Lower Dauphin responded with a methodical drive down the field. The Falcons eventually broke through on a short touchdown run with 5:25 remaining in the first quarter, taking an early 7-0 lead.
The Cougars needed an answer, and Jaxin Robinson provided the spark.
Robinson turned a broken play into a beautiful 24-yard run, bringing Palmyra to the Lower Dauphin one-yard line. It took three attempts, but quarterback Roman Russek finally broke the plane on a keeper. Brenden Crout connected on the extra point, evening the score at 7-7.
Lower Dauphin continued moving the ball early in the second quarter, converting a fourth-and-one to extend its possession. However, when the Falcons faced another fourth-down opportunity, junior Cadin Smith broke through for a sack, giving the Cougars possession.
Palmyra wasted little time taking advantage.
Russek exploded for an electrifying 73-yard touchdown run, giving the Cougars their first lead of the night, 13-7, with 7:08 remaining before halftime.
After another defensive stop, Palmyra’s special teams delivered the next big play.
Alex Csongradi fielded a punt at his own 20-yard line and raced 80 yards to the end zone, extending Palmyra’s lead to 19-7 with 1:52 remaining in the half.
Lower Dauphin attempted to respond, but Robinson came up with an interception with 1:07 remaining, preserving the Cougars’ 12-point halftime advantage.
The Falcons came out of halftime determined to get back into the game, scoring on a rushing touchdown approximately four minutes into the third quarter to cut the deficit to 19-13.
Palmyra’s special teams nearly delivered another touchdown on the ensuing kickoff. Although a penalty wiped out the score, the return gave the Cougars excellent field position at the Lower Dauphin 19-yard line.
Palmyra capitalized, with Russek powering into the end zone on another quarterback keeper to extend the lead to 25-13 with 7:07 remaining in the third quarter.
Lower Dauphin refused to go away quietly, answering with another rushing touchdown and extra point to make it 25-20.
Once again, Palmyra had an answer.
Russek connected with Robinson on a 16-yard touchdown pass, and Crout added the extra point to push the Cougars’ advantage to 32-20 as the game moved into the fourth quarter.
The Falcons struck again through the air, completing a touchdown pass and adding the extra point to cut Palmyra’s lead to 32-27.
With Lower Dauphin once again within striking distance, the Cougars needed another big play to regain control.
This time, Aaron Villafane delivered.
Villafane broke loose for a 33-yard rushing touchdown, giving the home crowd at The Buck another reason to celebrate. Palmyra successfully converted with Mason Kyper delivering on a run for the two-point attempt, extending its lead to 40-27.
However, the Falcons weren’t finished.
Lower Dauphin mounted one final scoring drive, connecting on another touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter. The successful extra point cut Palmyra’s advantage to 40-34, suddenly making it a one-possession game once again.
With the rivalry victory hanging in the balance, the Cougars managed to hold on through the final moments, securing a hard-fought six-point win.
For Palmyra, the victory was a much-needed breakthrough after several close losses earlier in the season. The Cougars consistently found answers whenever Lower Dauphin threatened, getting contributions from all three phases of the game.
Russek led the offensive effort, accounting for four touchdowns with three rushing scores and a touchdown pass to Robinson. His 73-yard run was one of the night’s biggest highlights, while Robinson contributed a key 24-yard gain, a touchdown reception and an interception.
Special teams also played a major role, highlighted by Csongradi’s 80-yard punt return touchdown and another big return that set up a third-quarter score. Defensively, Smith’s fourth-down sack helped shift momentum, while Villafane’s late touchdown run provided the crucial points that ultimately separated the teams.
The victory improves Palmyra to 4-4, returning the Cougars to .500 and giving them renewed momentum in the postseason race.
Palmyra will look to build on the win when the Cougars travel to Gettysburg next Friday before closing out the regular season on the road against Shippensburg.
After several weeks of coming up just short, the Cougars finally found a way to finish, and they did it against one of their biggest rivals.
Palmyra Stats
Passing: Roman Russek – 10/14, 156 yds, 1 TD, 0 INT, long 30; Team – 10/14, 156 yds, 1 TD, 0 INT
Rushing: Aaron Villafane – 7 carries, 97 yds, 1 TD, long 39; Roman Russek – 14 carries, 85 yds, 3 TD, long 73; Alex Csongradi – 4 carries, 29 yds, long 28; Mason Kyper – 1 carry, 12 yds; Other Palmyra rushers – 2 carries, 28 yds; Team – 28 carries, 251 yds, 4 TD
Receiving: Alex Csongradi – 2 receptions, 31 yds, long 30; Sid Harrison – 1 reception, 29 yds; Mason Kyper – 2 receptions, 8 yds; Other Palmyra receivers – 5 receptions, 88 yds, 1 TD; Team – 10 receptions, 156 yds, 1 TD
Defensive Leaders: Anthony Pinko – 3 tackles, 12 assists, 15 combined; Cadin Smith – 4 tackles, 8 assists, 12 combined, 3 TFL, 1 sack; Louis Loew – 5 tackles, 5 assists, 10 combined; K. Sparks – 4 tackles, 5 assists, 9 combined; G. Stoak – 4 assists; B. Basehore – 3 assists; Sid Harrison – 2 tackles; Wyatt Fogleman – 2 assists; Mason Kyper – 1 tackle; Brenden Crout – 1 tackle; T. Aughenbaugh – 1 assist; Alex Csongradi – 1 assist; E. Sargen – 1 assist; N. Krupko – 1 assist; Other Palmyra defenders – 7 tackles, 13 assists
Sacks: Cadin Smith – 1 sack; Team – 1 sack
Defensive Plays: Jaxin Robinson – 1 INT (identified in game reporting); Team – 1 INT, 1 sack, 3 TFL credited to Smith
Scoring: Roman Russek – 3 rushing TD (1, 73, 4 yds), 1 passing TD (16 yds); Aaron Villafane – 1 rushing TD (33 yds); Jaxin Robinson – 1 receiving TD (16 yds, identified in game reporting); Alex Csongradi – 1 punt return TD (75 yds); Mason Kyper – 1 successful two-point conversion; Brenden Crout – 2 successful PAT; Team – 6 TD, 2 PAT, 1 two-point conversion, 40 points
Special Teams: Punt Returns: Alex Csongradi – 1 return, 75 yds, 1 TD; Kickoff Returns: Wyatt Fogleman – 1 return, 75 yds; Kicking: Brenden Crout – 2 successful PAT; Kickoffs: Brenden Crout – 8 kickoffs, 362 yds, long 58; Wyatt Fogleman – 1 kickoff, 4 yds; Punting: Anthony Pinko – 1 punt, 27 yds
Team Totals: 407 total offensive yds (251 rushing, 156 passing); 47 offensive plays; 28 carries for 251 yds and 4 TD; 10/14 passing for 156 yds, 1 TD and 0 INT; 16 first downs; 0/4 on third down; 3/3 on fourth down; 0 turnovers; 10 penalties for 123 yds
Coach Pavone’s Post-Game Thoughts
On the team’s complete performance against Lower Dauphin:
“It was a great team win in all three phases. We were able to play really solid complementary football. Our offense only punted once and scored on every other drive, our defense made some key plays, and our special teams were electric. We put it all together to finish off a key win.”
On the team’s resilience and continued growth:
“I’m really proud of our continued response and growth week by week. A lot of teams would feel sorry for themselves and fold after so many close losses, but these guys haven’t. For them to come out and really take it to a solid Lower Dauphin team is a statement for this team and our program overall.”
Northern Lebanon 22, Octorara 14
It is crazy to believe we have nearly reached the end of the 2026 high school football season. With the playoffs quickly approaching, the Northern Lebanon Vikings (4-3) took a long trip to Octorara to take on the winless Braves (0-7).
The Vikings entered the game needing a victory to keep their postseason hopes alive after dropping two straight contests. Meanwhile, Octorara was desperate to pick up its first win of the season.
The game, already delayed by the line of storms, started slowly for Northern Lebanon, as the Braves came out ready to play.
Octorara quarterback Collin Wood broke loose on a read-option play for a touchdown late in the first quarter, giving the Braves an early 7-0 lead.
Wood was not finished there. Another read-option play resulted in a 63-yard touchdown run, extending Octorara’s advantage to 14-0 and putting Northern Lebanon in a difficult position.
The Vikings had plenty of work to do, with their offense struggling to find a rhythm against a Braves team hungry for its first victory.
Northern Lebanon’s defense delivered a much better effort in the second quarter, keeping Octorara from adding to its lead. However, the Vikings were unable to get anything going offensively, sending both teams into the locker room with the Braves holding a surprising 14-0 advantage.
Octorara was just one half away from securing its first victory of the season, while Northern Lebanon needed a major turnaround to keep its playoff hopes on track.
The second half started in the Vikings’ favor, though, as Brady Ryan broke loose for a 15-yard touchdown run, cutting the deficit to 14-7 and showing that Head Coach Nate Monroe and his squad were not going down without a fight.
The momentum shift did not stop there.
A bad snap on an Octorara punt deep in Braves territory resulted in a safety, giving Northern Lebanon two more points and cutting the deficit to 14-9.
Suddenly, the Vikings were showing signs of a comeback.
Northern Lebanon continued to heat up in the third quarter, with Ryan getting red hot. The senior powered his way into the end zone from one yard out for his second touchdown of the quarter, giving the Vikings their first lead at 15-14.
After struggling throughout the first half, Northern Lebanon had completely changed the narrative, turning a 14-point deficit into a one-point advantage.
The Vikings’ defense continued to make life difficult for the Braves. Ryan Clemmer came away with an interception late in the third quarter, providing another huge play as Northern Lebanon looked to protect its lead.
Northern Lebanon carried its 15-14 advantage into the fourth quarter with all the momentum on its side.
And the Vikings were not about to take their foot off the gas.
Ryan found the end zone for the third time, scoring on an eight-yard rushing touchdown to extend Northern Lebanon’s lead to 22-14.
With time running out for Octorara, the Vikings’ defense continued to step up, keeping the Braves off the scoreboard throughout the entire second half.
Northern Lebanon completed its comeback as the final seconds ticked away, securing a hard-fought 22-14 victory after trailing by two touchdowns at halftime.
For the Vikings, the win was exactly the response they needed following consecutive losses to Conrad Weiser and Lampeter-Strasburg.
Ryan was the driving force behind the comeback, scoring all three of Northern Lebanon’s touchdowns on runs of 15, one and eight yards. His second-half performance helped erase a 14-0 deficit and regain control of a game that appeared to be slipping away.
The defense also deserves plenty of credit. After allowing two early touchdowns, Northern Lebanon shut out Octorara over the final three quarters, with Clemmer’s interception and the special teams safety providing crucial momentum-changing plays.
Northern Lebanon improves to 5-3 and will return home next Friday night to host Daniel Boone (2-6) in another important matchup as the Vikings continue their push toward the District 3 playoffs.
Octorara falls to 0-8 and will travel to Wyomissing next Saturday afternoon, still searching for its first victory.
With two regular-season games remaining, the Vikings have plenty left to play for, and Friday night’s comeback could provide exactly the momentum they need heading into the final stretch.
Coach Monroe’s Post-Game Thoughts
On the team’s resilience and ability to bounce back:
“I thought we did a really good job bouncing back tonight. It was another game where we had to battle through adversity, and our guys were up to the challenge. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”
On the defensive performance:
“I thought our defense got back on track. They played a great game, came up with some really key stops and were especially strong in the second half.”
On the offense and Ryan Clemmer stepping in at quarterback:
“Our offense got back on track with our ability to run the ball, and I thought Ryan Clemmer did an excellent job in his first game at quarterback.”
On special teams and the team’s preparation:
“Our special teams also played really well. We kicked the ball well and did a great job in coverage. We had a really good week of practice, and I couldn’t be more proud of our guys.”
Northern Lebanon Stats
Passing: Ryan Clemmer – 9/13, 105 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT, long 22; Team – 9/13, 105 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT
Rushing: Brady Ryan – 25 carries, 70 yds, 3 TD, long 15; Ryan Clemmer – 7 carries, 3 yds, long 10; Team – 32 carries, 73 yds, 3 TD
Receiving: Landon Copenhaver – 4 receptions, 38 yds, long 13; Bryce Yocum – 4 receptions, 37 yds, long 13; Chase Birkhead – 1 reception, 22 yds; Team – 9 receptions, 97 yds, 0 TD
Defensive Leaders: Bryce Yocum – 13 tackles (8 solo, 5 assists), 1 TFL, 1 sack, 1 QB hurry; Landon Copenhaver – 12 tackles (6 solo, 6 assists), 3 TFL, 2 passes defended; Brady Ryan – 11 tackles (9 solo, 2 assists), 1 pass defended; Christian Spencer – 9 tackles (6 solo, 3 assists), 1 TFL, 1 fumble recovery; Landon Graby – 9 tackles (4 solo, 5 assists), 3 TFL, 2 sacks; Vinny Moyer – 8 tackles (2 solo, 6 assists), 1 TFL, 1 sack; Chase Birkhead – 4 tackles (3 solo, 1 assist); Justin Bennethum – 4 assists; Jaxin Bush – 3 tackles (1 solo, 2 assists); Ryan Clemmer – 2 solo tackles, 1 INT, 1 pass defended; Sam England – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist); Connor Wallish – 2 tackles (1 solo, 1 assist); Sam Kline – 1 solo tackle; Johnny Billig – 1 solo tackle; A. Wanyo – 1 assist; G. McQuaide – 1 assist
Sacks: Landon Graby – 2 sacks, 11 yds lost; Bryce Yocum – 1 sack, 2 yds lost; Vinny Moyer – 1 sack, 8 yds lost; Team – 4 sacks, 21 yds lost
Defensive Plays: Ryan Clemmer – 1 INT, 1 pass defended; Landon Copenhaver – 2 passes defended; Brady Ryan – 1 pass defended; Christian Spencer – 1 fumble recovery; Bryce Yocum – 1 QB hurry; Team – 1 INT, 1 fumble recovery, 4 passes defended, 1 QB hurry
Scoring: Brady Ryan – 3 rushing TD (15, 1, 8 yds); A. Wanyo – 2 successful PAT; Team – 3 rushing TD, 2 PAT, 1 safety, 22 points
Special Teams: Kickoff Returns: Landon Copenhaver – 4 returns, 79 yds, 19.8 avg, long 23; Kickoffs: A. Wanyo – 4 kickoffs, 209 yds, 52.3 avg, long 60, 1 touchback; Punting: A. Wanyo – 5 punts, 174 yds, 34.8 avg, long 43; Kicking: A. Wanyo – 2/2 PAT
Team Offensive Totals: 178 total offensive yds (105 passing, 73 rushing); 45 offensive plays; 9/13 passing for 105 yds, 0 TD, 1 INT; 32 carries for 73 yds, 3 TD; 2 recorded offensive fumbles by Ryan, with lost fumbles not specified
Key Numbers: Northern Lebanon rallied from a 14-0 halftime deficit to defeat Octorara 22-14, scoring all 22 points in the second half. Ryan powered the comeback with three rushing touchdowns on 25 carries, while Clemmer completed nine passes for 105 yards in his first start at quarterback. Defensively, Yocum led the Vikings with 13 tackles, while Copenhaver added 12 and Ryan recorded 11. Graby registered two sacks as Northern Lebanon totaled four sacks, and the defense kept Octorara scoreless after halftime. Clemmer also came up with a key interception, while a special teams safety helped turn the momentum in the Vikings’ favor.
Fleetwood 52, Lebanon 0
The Lebanon Cedars hit the road in Week 8, traveling to Fleetwood to take on a Tigers team looking to regain its winning momentum. Fleetwood entered the night with a 3-4 record, having dropped its previous two games against Twin Valley and Warwick after an encouraging 3-2 start that included victories over Kutztown, ELCO and Manheim Central.
For Lebanon, the matchup presented another opportunity to continue developing and working toward that elusive first victory of the 2026 season.
Unfortunately for the Cedars, Fleetwood came out firing.
After Lebanon punted on its opening possession, Beau Fegely broke loose for a 57-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Tigers a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter.
The Cedars were unable to get much going on their next possession, and Fleetwood struck again when Bryce Ryanscored on a six-yard touchdown run. The missed extra point left the Tigers ahead 13-0.
Fleetwood continued to find success on the ground, with Fegely adding his second touchdown of the night on a 21-yard run. The Tigers later connected on a touchdown pass and converted the two-point attempt, building a 28-0 advantage by the end of the opening quarter.
Lebanon continued searching for an offensive spark in the second quarter, but turnovers made things difficult. The Cedars threw an interception early in the period, although the defense responded with an interception of its own to give Lebanon another opportunity.
Unfortunately, a fumble on the ensuing possession returned the ball to Fleetwood, which capitalized with another rushing touchdown to extend its lead to 35-0.
Another Lebanon interception led to additional points for the Tigers, who added a rushing touchdown before connecting on a field goal late in the half to take a 45-0 advantage into the locker room.
Despite the difficult first half, Lebanon’s defense showed some improvement after the break.
The Cedars kept Fleetwood off the scoreboard throughout the third quarter, including a defensive stand that ended with the Tigers missing a field goal attempt. While Lebanon struggled to establish a consistent offensive rhythm, the defense prevented Fleetwood from adding to its lead during the period.
The Tigers eventually found the end zone once more early in the fourth quarter, adding a rushing touchdown and extra point to make it 52-0.
Lebanon continued competing through the final minutes, but the Cedars were unable to break through offensively as Fleetwood closed out the shutout victory.
For Lebanon, the loss was another difficult chapter in a challenging season. Offensive turnovers and Fleetwood’s explosive rushing attack put the Cedars in an early hole that proved too much to overcome.
Still, there were moments to build upon, particularly the second-quarter interception and a third-quarter defensive effort that kept the Tigers scoreless. Those are the types of plays Lebanon will look to build on as the team continues working to improve.
The Cedars fall to 0-8 on the season, but with two games remaining, there are still opportunities to make progress and finish the year on a positive note.
Lebanon will return to the road next Friday night when the Cedars travel to face Ephrata in Week 9, continuing their pursuit of a breakthrough victory.
LebCo High School Football: Week 7 Results
2026 LebCo Football Team-by-Team Season Outlooks
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