Aug 12, 2015 3 min read

Charleroi: 2-8 (1-7 Interstate Conference)

Arguably no program underwent a bigger makeover in 2014 than Charleroi. Donnie Militzer took over as head coach and installed an up-tempo spread attack.

The goal was to make the WPIAL playoffs, but the personnel was not quite there yet. The Cougars lost seven straight games to start the season – giving up more than 40 points in five of those losses. They were beaten up front on both sides of the football and the offense was anything but fast against top competition.

The offense averaged just 19.3 points per game, plus Charleroi’s only wins came against Brownsville and California, a Class A opponent the Cougars faced in Week 10.

There were positives from the season. Quarterback Matt Carr broke the school’s single-season passing record and Charleroi found a few players that will help them in 2015.

Senior running back Brock Shannon, who scored 12 touchdowns last season, and senior wide receiver Trey Douyan received all-conference honors. Another player to watch is senior tight end John Arnold, a 6-9 force that is still learning the sport. Despite his raw ability, Arnold is receiving Division I interest from Penn State and Pitt.

Once again, it’s not known whether Charleroi has linemen to block for those weapons or if the defense can stop anybody. Those have been the two problems that have plagued the program since 2004, which was the last time the Cougars reached the WPIAL playoffs.

Five linemen graduated from last season, including Jake Lemmon, who was among the best in the conference. The one thing that will help is having a full offseason under Militzer and his staff. That means more time in the weight room.

Charleroi will need to be strong to compete in the Interstate Conference. Washington, McGuffey, Southmoreland and Mt. Pleasant all have that. I’ve heard the quarterback battle is still wide open with the Cougars, so keep an eye out for that.

Militzer has the program headed in the right direction. Charleroi needed an influx of energy and he was tasked with changing the culture. That doesn’t happen overnight, but look for the Cougars to be improved in 2015.

Players to watch: Brock Shannon, Trey Douyan and John Arnold.

Biggest game: Week One vs. Southmoreland. Starting fast against the Scotties is going to be key. Soutmoreland is a playoff contender and a win would have Charleroi’s players believing that success is possible.

Stat to think about: The fewest points scored by a team that qualified for the WPIAL Class AA playoffs in 2014 – Seton-La Salle (26.9 per game).