Highlands coach Sam Albert is known for his whimsical offenses, especially those he tinkers with in non-conference games.
Last week, Highlands (2-0) showed its "confusion" sets, where bunches of players line up scattered across the line of scrimmage. But Highlands also broke out a new-look "Wildcat" offense — err "Wild Ram" — in the second half of a 35-0 victory over Derry Area.
Junior receiver Tre Duncan played several series at quarterback, dashing up the middle for yardage, while also executing a perfect option pitch to Terrell Leonard for a 9-yard touchdown.
Albert thinks the offense could come in handy in Greater Allegheny Conference play.
"And Tre isn't just a threat to run the ball," Albert said. "He can throw, too.
"We want (the Wildcat) to be a part of our package. We ran it in a scrimmage against Burrell with some success."
Highlands already surpassed last year's win total.
» The Pittsburgh Sports Report has two local games on its high school football tour.
The publication is planning "extensive coverage," offering copies of its "stadium edition" at every game and audio and video highlights of its games on its website.
The two games are somewhat intriguing: Kittanning at Peters Township this Friday, and Wilkinsburg at Leechburg Oct. 29.
» Knoch's James Zellhart played well along the offensive line Friday night, then he tested his whits on a Saturday morning quiz show on television.
Zellhart joined two classmates on KDKA's "Hometown Hi-Q," a type of "quiz bowl" show where three schools compete against one another..
» Apollo-Ridge has the perfect thing to help open its new football field: basketball.
The school is sponsoring a 3-vs-3 basketball tournament Sept. 25 at the Owens Grove courts. The event runs in conjunction with the opening of renovated Owens Field.
The football team plays its home opener Sept. 24 against Deer Lakes.
Cost is $30 per team and pre-registration is required. Contact: Matt Gourley, 724-454-7851.
