The Explorers, coming off a 26-16 win over Father Judge, are trying for their fourth consecutive league championship.
Here is a closer look at the final:
First meeting. On Oct. 1, behind Tim Wade's 151 rushing yards and Matt Magarity's two TD passes, La Salle eked out a 23-21 victory at Northeast.
Rematch. In last year's final, La Salle rolled to a 35-16 win over Roman.
Capable backup. Filling in for Keir against the Prep, Chris Cruz, a 6-foot, 180-pound junior, hit on 8 of 14 passes for 231 yards and five scores. He also ran for a 62-yard TD. "He showed he could make plays," La Salle coach Drew Gordon said.
Record-setter. Against Judge, Wade set a single-game school rushing record with 300 yards on 39 carries. "We have to keep No. 33's numbers down," McCourt said.
Speedsters. The Cahillites have dangerous playmakers in wideouts William Fuller and Taishan Tucker. That means La Salle must get strong efforts from cornerbacks Ryan Otis and Dad Poquie, with help from the safeties.
Injury update. La Salle two-way lineman Tom Spiteri (knee) and backup running back Jared Herrmann (ankle) were injured in the first half against Judge. Gordon said their status will be determined Friday.
Battle to watch. Tyrone Brown, the 6-1, 265-pound anchor of Roman's defensive line, likely will be matched against tackle Matt Maginnis (6-3, 215) and, if available, guard Spiteri (6-2, 250).
Pick: It's tempting to pick the Cahillites, regardless of who plays QB, but we think the Explorers find a way to take home gold again. La Salle, 28-23.
Contact staff writer Rick O'Brien at 610-313-8019, robrien@phillynews.com, or @ozoneinq on Twitter. Read his blog, "The O'Zone," at www.philly.com/ozone
