The Farrell and Clairton football teams will no doubt have the "one game at a time" mindset for Friday's PIAA Class A semifinal at Wexford. The Steelers must win that game before they can concern themselves with a state championship opponent.

Not that they'd want to, given the team – and more specifically, player – they'll likely face.

Friday's other A semi pits 14-0 Schuylkill Haven vs. 14-0 Steelton-Highspire. Schuylkill Haven must be the favorite, if for one reason.

That reason is Zach Barket. On Friday, the 5-foot, 10-inch, 205-pound senior running back was named the 2008-09 Gatorade Football Player of the Year for Pennsylvania.

It's hard to dispute the choice, given Barket's season statistics. And yes, the following numbers are real:

Carries this season: 368.

Yards this season: 4,042.

Touchdowns this season: 64.

Barket also has contributed to a Schuylkill defense that's limited opponents to 13 points per game this season.

Gatorade also cited Barket's success in track and field, his academic achievements, participation in various school activities, and his service missions with the National Honor Society.

Barket's football performance will make some collegiate program elated. He's yet to choose a school.

-- Mike Copper