Mt. Lebanon hosts Fox Chapel in Week Zero of football
Mike Melnyk didn’t have to even think about playing a football game this week. His Blue Devils of Mt. Lebanon will be among the many WPIAL teams taking advantage of the rule allowing schools to play a “live” game as opposed to another scrimmage in what has been dubbed Week Zero of the high school football season in the WPIAL. Lebo will host Fox Chapel at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 25.
“I love the option of playing a real game,” Melnyk enthused. “Unlike other sports, we work all year long for just a few games, so any time you have a chance to add another, it is a no-brainer. It adds a little more stress and sense of urgency in camp, but that is a good life lesson. You have to be ready for show time.”
The Blue Devils prepped for showtime with a dress rehearsal on Aug. 19 against West Allegheny. In the scrimmage, Lebo learned that they can contend with the best as the Indians have won a record eight WPIAL titles, including last year’s championship under Bob Palk.
“West Allegheny is a good football team but we have a chance to be pretty good also,” said Melnyk. “We learned some things that we still need to work on before playing Fox Chapel,” he added.
The Foxes, who are coached by former South Park skipper Tom Loughran, ride a five-game winning streak into the showdown. They feature Nick Gizzo at quarterback, Micah Morris at running back and Chase Villani at linebacker. He also can be used in the backfield or at tight end on offense.
“Fox Chapel is well coached and physical,” said Melnyk.
“Their quarterback can run and throw very effectively. Their running back is a load at 6’2, 243 pounds. So we need to tackle well and bring more than one guy.”
Melnyk added the Blue Devils are impressed with Villani. “He is physical and is always around the ball on defense.”
Hence, Melnyk expects a very physical game that will be impacted by penalties, turnovers and special teams. “As all games are this time of year,” he added. “We need to be ready right out of the gate.”
Because they have had a rough training camp, the Blue Devils have been hampered. Being banged up has hindered the team’s ability to “build some consistency” but there have been some bright spots.
According to Melnyk, John Naylor has had a great camp so far. He is a senior running back and linebacker. Sophomore JB Neleson has shown “flashes” and Coleman Coco had played well. The Colgate commit has been doing a good job setting the tempo for Lebo’s senior leadership, Melnyk said.