After two consecutive years of losing in the finals, the Saucon Valley High School football team won the 2016 Lehigh University 7-on-7 pass scrimmage competition Saturday. Using a unique scoring system that rewards downfield passing and good defense, the Panthers ultimately came out on top after a long day at the office. The competition was stiff, with more than 20 teams from all over the region participating in two divisions.
Saucon Valley went 3-1 in pool play, which was enough to get them into the playoffs. The Panthers tallied wins against Camden (N.J.), Archmere Academy (Del.) and Pittston (Pa.). The Panthers did, however, stumble against Notre Dame-Green Pond in a low-scoring matchup.
In the playoff round, the Panthers were able to defeat Whitehall in the semifinals and then avenge their lone loss with a victory in the finals against the same Notre Dame team that beat them earlier in the day.
Because it was a 7-on-7 passing tournament, you might think that the “Hogs” sat this one out. Well, if you did, you’re wrong. The Saucon Valley offensive and defensive linemen could argue that they were working and not playing games like their teammates.
Offensive and defensive linemen of the teams playing in the pass scrimmage were invited by the Lehigh University coaches and staff to drill and work on their technique during the morning portion of the tournament. The “Hogs” were indeed in Lehigh’s house!