Cathedral Prep won a Pennsylvania title. How would that translate in a matchup against a Florida power like St. Thomas Aquinas?
Photo by Ken Inness
Bowl Game: Orange Bowl, Florida State vs. Northern Illinois
High school equivalent: St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) vs.
Cathedral Prep (Erie, Pa.)Rankings (Xcellent 25, MaxPreps Computer Rankings): St. Thomas Aquinas: 20, 35; Cathedral Prep n/a, 41
To many, Florida State vs. Northern Illinois is a David-versus-Goliatch type of matchup in the Orange Bowl. A prep pairing of Aquinas vs. Cathedral Prep, in a way.
Like Florida State, Aquinas would be in the national title discussion if not for two losses. However, just like the Seminoles, Aquinas has plenty of talent, especially on the defensive line.
Joseph Bosa, committed to Ohio State, is one of the state's best players when fully healthy. Younger brother
Nicholas Bosa made an impact and earned National Freshman of the Year honors this fall.
John O'Korn and St. Thomas Aquinaswould be a solid favorite againstCathedral Prep.
Photo by Lou Novick
Quarterback
John O'Korn routinely made big plays for Rocco Casullo's Raiders, who captured the Class 7A state title. O'Korn's star shined brightest when he led Aquinas to a stunningly easy victory over Manatee, then ranked No. 1 nationally.
Just as Northern Illinois enjoyed a dream season with a 12-1 record and a Mid-American Conference title, Cathedral Prep's 2012 campaign was a memorable one.
While not quite an extremely small school, Cathedral Prep captured the Class AAA title, the second-largest classification in Pennsylvania. It overwhelmed opponents, finishing 15-0 and outscoring its opponents 701-152.
Damion Terry is to Cathedral Prep what playmaking quarterback Jordan Lynch is to Northern Illinois. The senior threw for 3,282 yards and 48 touchdowns while rushing for 11 touchdowns.
Terry would have to shine for Cathedral to knock off Aquinas. The team's offensive line, which was sound all season long, would also need to be ready for a battle.
Our Computer Projection (neutral field): Aquinas 31, Cathedral Prep 21
