California, Pa. – Coach Ed Woods says the Trojans’ demanding non‑conference slate early this season has been a blessing in disguise. The team endured a 43‑14 defeat at Fort Cherry and a 50‑6 loss to Washington High in the first three weeks, but those tests have forged a resilient squad ready for playoff football.
Early adversity builds confidence
When the WPIAL pairings were released, the Prexies earned the No. 1 seed while the Rangers landed at No. 4. Despite the tough opening, Woods welcomed the schedule. “No question I think it definitely helped us playing Fort Cherry and Wash High at the beginning of the season,” he explained. “That’s what gets you ready for the conference. Win or lose, it makes you better.”
The Trojans responded by capturing the Tri‑County South Conference title with a 22‑20 victory over previously unbeaten Beth‑Center in Week 10. Since that loss to Washington, California has won seven straight games, improving to an 8‑2 record and earning the sixth seed in the postseason.
Quarterback leadership and key players
Quarterback Devontae Smith is the engine of the offense. Woods praised Smith’s dual‑threat ability, noting his size—approximately 6‑1, 215 pounds—and his skill as both a runner and passer. “He’s an excellent runner and throws the ball well, too,” Woods said.
Other offensive contributors include quarterback Brandon Meier, running backs Alan Dennis and Chase Shemansky, fullback Brayden Crockett, and receivers Eli Carpenter and Weston Monticelli. Their balanced attack has helped the Trojans dominate opponents in recent weeks.
Playoff preview
California opens the postseason on Friday at Trojans Stadium, facing No. 11 Northgate (7‑3) with a 7 p.m. kickoff. Woods respects the opponent, calling Northgate “a good football team.” He highlighted the importance of containing Northgate’s standout running back, likening him to Enzo Brown, a Bulldogs player the Trojans faced the previous week.
“We’ve got to try to stop him or we’re going to have some issues,” Woods warned. He added that the Trojans match up better with Northgate in the trenches, especially on the offensive and defensive lines.
Coach Woods’ milestones
Beyond the on‑field success, Woods reached personal coaching milestones this season. He became California’s career wins leader with 63 victories and secured his 10th conference championship. When asked about these achievements, Woods brushed them aside, focusing on the upcoming game. “I don’t think about that stuff now,” he said. “The sad thing with me is after the Beth‑Center game I’m already thinking about what I have to do Saturday morning, finding out who we’re going to play. I can’t really enjoy anything until it’s all over. It’s just how I’m built.”
Looking ahead
If the Trojans defeat Northgate, they will advance to the quarterfinals on Nov. 13, likely meeting No. 3 Clairton, which hosts No. 14 Union in the first round. The team’s early-season adversity appears to have prepared them for the challenges ahead, and Woods hopes the schedule continues to test the squad in the weeks to come.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
