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St. Joe’s Prep defends state crown with victory over North Allegheny

The Hawks have captured six titles of eight state final appearances since 2016.

St. Joe's Prep quarterback Samaj Jones spots an open teammate during the PIAA 6 semifinals against Central Bucks South High School at North Penn High School on Dec. 2.
St. Joe's Prep quarterback Samaj Jones spots an open teammate during the PIAA 6 semifinals against Central Bucks South High School at North Penn High School on Dec. 2.Read moreTyger Williams / Staff Photographer

St. Joseph’s Prep cruised past North Allegheny, 45-23, in the PIAA Class 6A football championship Saturday at Cumberland Valley High School, earning back-to-back state crowns.

The Hawks (13-1) had a 27-point lead at the half. Senior quarterback Samaj Jones, who’s heading to Cincinnati, finished with five touchdowns (two rushing, three passing). He completed 14 of 17 passes for 232 yards and rushed for 115 yards on 11 carries.

His two rushing touchdowns in the first quarter included a 45-yarder. He also connected on an 80-yard touchdown pass to future college teammate Elijah Jones in the second.

» READ MORE: St. Joseph’s Prep’s Omillio Agard is one of the best DBs in the nation. He also experienced the ‘ugly side’ of recruitment

The Hawks have captured six titles in eight state final appearances since 2016. Their only loss this season was against IMG Academy in August.

St. Joe’s Prep will graduate 28 seniors, with those also heading off to FBS programs including cornerback Omillio Agard (Wisconsin), wide receivers Brandon Rehmann (West Virginia) and David Washington (Kentucky), linebacker Nick McGlynn (Army), and kicker Skyler Sholder (Delaware).

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