Lancaster Catholic

By John Buffone

jbuffone@gametimepa.com

Strength of schedule and a strong finish helped the 5-5 Crusaders make the District 3 Class AAA playoffs in 2013 but after some realignment, Lancaster Catholic finds themselves in a loaded Section Two heading into 2014.

“We would have liked to stay in Section One but I understand the reasoning for us moving down to Section Two,” Crusaders coach Bruce Harbach said. “We don’t consider it moving down though and I think it’s one of the most competitive sections in the state.”

An inconsistency at quarterback was a big contributing factor to Catholic’s slow 2013 start and Harbach is hoping there won’t be a similar issue this season.

“We have three kids competing for the quarterback position right now. The scrimmages could decide it or team camp could decide it but it’s very competitive and that’s a good situation. They work hard and they’re friends.”

The competition is reportedly between three sophomores; Bryan Downey. Jordan Scott and Taylor Lentz.

“I don’t know if Bryan has the edge right now over Jordan and Taylor. They both performed well in the 7-on-7 we had. By the time we get to the team camp, we should know who our starting quarterback will be.”

Returning for the Crusaders is workhorse senior tailback Nassir Weaver who rushed 128 times in seven games last year while accumulating 645 yards and eight touchdowns.

“We’re counting on him at running back as well as Christian Kemp from Mennonite who started at cornerback for us last year.”

In their new section that contains powerhouses Manheim Central, Cocalico and Garden Spot, Harbach knows there will be little room for error in 2014.

“We cannot start 0-3 again this year. We can’t turn the ball over and we have to have some consistency. When we establish the quarterback, that will help out.”