The opening round of the District XI Football Playoffs showcased impressive performances across various classifications, with several teams advancing decisively into the next stages.
Class 1A Highlights
In the Class 1A matchup, the top-seeded Lackawanna Trail Lions delivered a commanding performance against the fourth-seeded Nativity BVM, securing a 50-6 victory. This win marked a milestone for Lackawanna’s running back, Isaac Ryon, who set a new school record for rushing yards in a season. The Lions now advance to face Tri-Valley in the District 2-11 subregional final.
Tri-Valley, the third seed, triumphed in a nail-biting defensive struggle against second-seeded Marian Catholic, finishing the game with a score of 3-0. The Bulldogs claimed victory with a remarkable 50-yard field goal from Nathan Hillard late in the third quarter.
Class 2A Action
The Class 2A games also delivered excitement, with top-seeded Schuylkill Haven continuing their undefeated streak by overpowering eighth-seeded Catasauqua 62-14. Running back Colton Reber was a standout, rushing for over 300 yards and scoring six touchdowns. Schuylkill Haven will host fourth-seeded Northern Lehigh in the next round.
In another matchup, second-seeded Williams Valley dominated seventh-seeded Executive Education Charter with a 42-13 victory, scoring all their points in the first half and showcasing a strong defensive performance. The Vikings are set to host Minersville in the semifinals after a 35-27 win against sixth-seeded Pen Argyl, powered by quarterback Dante Carr, who contributed four rushing touchdowns.
Northern Lehigh secured a dramatic 29-28 overtime win against fifth-seeded Palisades, advancing to face Schuylkill Haven in the semifinals.
Class 3A and 4A Highlights
In Class 3A, top-seeded Notre Dame Green Pond made a strong statement with a 56-6 victory over eighth-seeded Salisbury Township. The Crusaders will host fifth-seeded Tamaqua, who earned their first District XI playoff win since 2019 by defeating fourth-seeded Saucon Valley 22-15.
Defending state champions, second-seeded Northwestern Lehigh, maintained their momentum with a commanding 42-0 victory over seventh-seeded Palmerton. The Tigers will host North Schuylkill on Friday after their 53-27 win against sixth-seeded Panther Valley, where senior Luke Miller shone with three rushing touchdowns.
In the Class 4A bracket, top-seeded Southern Lehigh shut out eighth-seeded Bangor 56-0, while second-seeded Bethlehem Catholic overcame seventh-seeded Pottsville 28-14 after a tied halftime score. The Hawks will face rival Allentown Central Catholic, who advanced with a 52-21 victory over sixth-seeded Jim Thorpe. Blue Mountain secured a decisive 42-7 win against fifth-seeded Lehighton and will take on Southern Lehigh in their next game.
Overall, the opening round of the District XI Football Playoffs delivered excitement and showcased remarkable talent across the field, setting the stage for thrilling matchups in the upcoming semifinals.
