If there is one word to describe the approach the WPIAL took in putting together the Class 4A playoff bracket, it would be “mystifying.”

Outside of McKeesport, the clear No. 1 seed now that junior running back Kemon Spell has recovered from an ankle injury that sidelined him for the better part of four games, the rest of the bracket is a veritable mishmash.

Though the debate will rage on, the time for talk has ended. Now it’s time players to prove their mettle on the field, as they prepare for the run to Pine-Richland and the title game on Nov. 15.

Thomas Jefferson is the reigning champion and will open its title defense at home against Mars. Coach Bill Cherpak will try to turn it up to 11, as he seeks to extend his record for WPIAL title coaching victories to 11. To do so, he will have

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