The crowd erupted with cheers in the last seconds of USC’s final regular season game. There was much to celebrate after Mt. Lebanon’s attempt at a winning field goal was blocked by Joe Repischak, clinching the conference title and a favorable playoff spot for the Panthers. The 21-19 victory capped an outstanding regular season for the football team.
The quarterback of the squad, captain Peter Coughlin, led the team in passing and rushing. He threw the ball for an impressive 961 yards and ran for another 423. Additionally, Coughlin recorded 20 all-purpose touchdowns, throwing for thirteen while rushing for seven.
The Panthers also benefited from great versatility and depth in the backfield. Seven different running backs have scored at least one touchdown, and five of those backs have rushed for over 100 yards. This variety gives Coach Jim Render significant flexibility in roster changes, making the team’s offense much more difficult for opposing coaches to decrypt.
Perhaps the Panthers’ greatest attribute is their strong defense; they’ve held opposing teams to an average of fewer than ten points per game. The defense also held three opponents scoreless in the regular season, making the offense’s job all the easier.
Now, the Panthers hope to continue this momentum, as they begin their playoff run tomorrow night against Kiski Area. Upper St. Clair is seeded third and will attempt to attain their sixth WPIAL AAAA title.
(UPDATE: The Panthers’ blew past the Kiski Cavaliers with a commanding 49-0 win. USC is now slated to take on the Central Catholic Vikings on Friday night at Baldwin High School. Kickoff is at 7:30)