On the evening of Oct. 18, the State College Little Lions took on the Thundering Herd of Carlisle in the 2024 Homecoming game.
State College started off very hot, even attempting and recovering an onside kick after senior receiver Ty Salazer scored the game’s first touchdown. The Little Lions scored three more touchdowns in the first quarter, including passes from senior Eddie Corkery to Salazer and senior Cooper Brushwood and a two-yard run by senior Lamar Wilson.
Carlisle’s defense could not stop the powerful Little Lion offense and defensively the Little Lions held very strong throughout the game.
As the game progressed into the second quarter, the State College offense still could not be stopped, scoring four more touchdowns. With 7:15 remaining in the first half, Salazer scored the second defensive touchdown of the game with a pick six to put the Little Lions ahead 41-0. State College began bringing in reserves on both sides of the ball as the half wound down. The Little Lions went into halftime up 54-0.
State College stayed strong defensively in the second half and salted the game away. The Little Lions scored just one more time and went on to win 60-0.
Head Coach Matt Lintal mentioned how important Homecoming week can be.
“It’s really special, you know, as an alum of State High, to be able to be a part of just the traditions and the parades and all of that, and see the kids and the interaction amongst the community and amongst all the different groups within the school is really a special week each and every year,” Lintal said.
It is Brushwood’s last Homecoming at State High, which is an emotional week. “That’s crazy,” Brushwood said. “I mean, I feel like it was just just a couple days ago that I was watching Homecoming from the stands and playing with my boys, so it’s crazy for real.”
Wilson also touched on his last Homecoming at State High.
“It’s definitely a mix of emotions,” he said. “I’m sad, I’m happy that we won the game. Sad that’s gonna be my last Homecoming game with all the teammates and stuff. I’m gonna miss them, though.”
With this victory, State College improves to 8-1 on the season. Brushwood was pleased with the performance.
“The guys put in the work for this week, and we didn’t play down to the team we were playing. I’m happy with it,” Brushwood said.
The team’s next game will be against the winner of the Erie vs Erie McDowell game on Nov. 8.
