The McDowell football team is coming off a strong performance in a 19-13 loss against a powerful McKeesport team.

However, the Trojans (2-2) must be careful not to overlook this week's opponent, Hempfield (2-2). According to the Pittsburgh Sports Report Web site, the Spartans have been decimated by injuries, including a season-ending knee injury to standout quarterback Shane Meisner. (The injury occurred during the summer.)

After a 16-14 comeback win over Norwin last week, the young Hempfield team appears to be no pushover for A.J. Fenton and his McDowell teammates. The Trojans beat Norwin 49-13 earlier in the season, but comparative scores often mean nothing.

By the way, McKeesport, which needed a late TD to beat McDowell last week, is ranked No. 3 in the state by the Harrsburg Patriot-News and No. 5 by Pennsylvania Football News. Gateway (4-0), which will visit McDowell on Oct. 10, is ranked No. 1 in both polls.