Sat Nov 08 01:10:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

The WPIAL football playoffs are heating up, with numerous rematches from the regular season taking center stage this Friday night. In Class 5A, Pine-Richland faces Shaler just two weeks after their regular-season finale. Several other classes also feature Week 9 rematches, including Central Catholic vs. Canon-McMillan and Bethel Park vs. Peters Township. Some earlier-season matchups are also renewed, such as Penn-Trafford vs. Moon and North Allegheny vs. Norwin. These rematches offer a chance for teams to adjust their strategies and potentially avenge earlier losses. Beyond the rematches, key matchups include Elizabeth Forward vs. North Catholic, a potential high-scoring affair, and Thomas Jefferson vs. McKeesport in a Class 4A semifinal. Traditional playoff wisdom about running teams dominating may be challenged, as many top passing quarterbacks are still in the hunt. Historic programs like Aliquippa, New Castle, Jeannette, and Clairton also feature in high-stakes games.

News Article:

WPIAL Playoffs Set for a Night of Rematches and Gridiron Grudges

By: Staff Writer

PITTSBURGH, PA (November 7, 2025) – The Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) football playoffs are poised for an electrifying Friday night as several teams get a second chance against familiar foes. A striking seven out of eight playoff games across Class 4A, 5A, and 6A are rematches from the regular season, setting the stage for strategic adjustments and potential upsets.

The most immediate rematch sees top-seeded Pine-Richland (9-1) hosting Shaler (4-7) in a Class 5A quarterfinal, a mere two weeks after their regular-season finale. Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne, who previously coached Shaler, brings unique insight to this matchup. “I have great relationships with the families,” said LeDonne, emphasizing the personal connection despite the competitive stakes.

Other notable rematches include Central Catholic facing Canon-McMillan and Bethel Park battling Peters Township in Class 5A. Furthermore, Penn-Trafford will host Moon, while North Allegheny and Norwin will square off in the 6A semifinals. Class 4A sees New Castle facing Aliquippa, and Thomas Jefferson battling McKeesport.

Beyond the familiar faces, a potentially explosive Class 3A quarterfinal features Elizabeth Forward (9-1) hosting North Catholic (8-3). Both teams boast high-powered offenses led by top quarterbacks Joey Felitsky of North Catholic and Ryan Messina of Elizabeth Forward.

The enduring playoff narrative that favors strong running teams is being challenged, as several teams with top-ranked passers remain in contention. This shift suggests a growing emphasis on aerial attacks in the WPIAL playoffs.

Adding another layer of intrigue, games are scheduled between programs steeped in WPIAL history. Aliquippa will play New Castle, and Jeannette faces off against Clairton.

With intensity rising and old scores to settle, Friday night promises a thrilling spectacle of WPIAL playoff football.

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