The intriguing thing about the Shawnee-Pennsauken rivalry is that the teams are so different in style. Shawnee is a sturdy team built on the broad back of its offensive line, which features Tulane recruit Bob Bradley as well as Tom Smith, Rob Beachy, and Jesse Osbourne.
The Renegades will pound the football with running backs Kyle Wigley and Rob D'Orio, and they have a solid defense led by middle guard Len Sanelli and linebacker Wes Hoffner.
Pennsauken's strength lies in its skill-position players, especially quarterback Manny Cortez and wide receivers Amar Williams, Ameer Williams (no relation), and Anthony Sweet, a transfer from Camden Catholic.
"We'll win a beauty contest if you want to play pretty with us," Tabb said. "But I know Shawnee doesn't want to do that. They'll come straight at us."
The key to both teams' season might be the development of their less-experienced areas. Shawnee is looking for solid quarterback play from athletic senior Jamie Jackopin, a new starter, while Pennsauken hopes to develop some up-front consistency with the likes of two-way linemen Justin Anderson and Shaquille Boardley and converted basketball player Kyle Johnston.
Winslow Township is dangerous with senior wide receiver Billy Johnson as well as massive two-way lineman Victor Stubbs. Clearview upset Winslow Township last season, and the Pioneers return a top two-way player in Connor Donahue.
Cherry Hill East could surprise as well. The Cougars return several starters, led by defensive tackle Frantz Felix, running back Brian Regan, and linebacker Matt Satchell, along with two-way contributors Rob Taylor, Kurt Taylor, and Taj Frazier, and quarterback Blaise Paglione.
Contact staff writer Phil Anastasia at 856-779-3223, panastasia@phillynews.com,
or @PhilAnastasia on Twitter.
