Shawnee makes statement

Shawnee rolled into Shamrock Field on the Catholic Catholic campus Friday night and puts its No. 1 ranking on the line.

The Renegades looked the part in the second half of a 42-13 victory. Chris LaPierre was terrific, Ben Schwing scored two TDs and quarterback Kody Smith and wide receiver Ryan Pretti made two huge plays.

I'm not sure Shawnee is better than No. 2 Mainland. But I'd pay to see that game.

Mainland might have a better defense -- not by much, but I'd give the Mustangs the edge -- and a more complete quarterback in Brent Caprio.

But Shawnee is big time. LaPierre is one of the best HIGH SCHOOL running backs in South Jersey history, and he's not a one-man band by any stretch.

Too bad they won't play.

But we can dream -- and argue -- can't we?

-- Phil Anastasia