Quinn Wentling didn’t need a big game in Whitehall’s convincing 42-0 victory over Pocono Mountain West.

He didn’t have a typical game that followed last year’s script that helped him lead the Zephyr to a District 11 Class 5 A crow. Wentling went on to receive All-State honors with 1,365 yards with 12 touchdowns and 741 yards rushing.

Instead, he had a modest 4-for-4, 94-yard passing effort coupled with his 16 yards on the ground that was still an integral part of their opening victory.

“I thought everyone was locked in, and we all did our assignments,” said the senior signal caller. “We know what the expectations are for us this year, but we are still going to take it one game at a time.

“I felt good about what I was able to do against (Pocono Mountain West), and I didn’t miss any throws. We were able to get our running game going, and that will be a big part of our season.”

Senior Nigel Linton led the Zephyrs with 88 yards rushing, and he scored three of their five touchdowns rushing the ball. Overall, Whitehall rushed for 133 yards on 17 carries, nearly eight yards per carry.

Whitehall will be tested Saturday afternoon when they travel to Bethlehem Catholic (0-1), who dropped a late 17-14 decision at Northampton last week.

The Golden Hawks had a balanced offensive attack last week behind quarterback Jared Richardson, who completed 18 of 28 passes for 183 yards with a touchdown pass. Max Johnson rushed for 71 yards on 17 carries and Zyaire Morris had 57 yards on 17 carries.

Bethlehem Catholic head coach Kyle Haas expects it to be a momentous battle.

“Whitehall has really improved over the last two years,” reflected Haas. “Their offense revolves around their quarterback (Quinn) Wentling. He’s a dual threat kid who is extremely tough and plays hard.

“We will need to minimize their RPO (run-pass option) and keep Wentling in the pocket. (Bryce) Bayshore and (Tommy) Buskirk are the primary targets. They have two good running backs that are dangerous in the open field.

“Defensively, they are aggressive and their linebackers are very active, downhill players. Their secondary is solid, and special teams will be the key. “

PREDICTION: This contest looms as a good matchup. Haas is confident his team will benefit with an extra day of practice. He has a good feeling about his defense, and they certainly will be tested against the high-octane Zephyrs.

Whitehall needs to prove that its abbreviated-season championship wasn’t a fluke last year. They did beat up a rebuilding Pocono Mountain West team, and Wentling is the real deal. Beca will have its hands full and can’t lose the turnover or special teams battle. It will be a tight one, but the feeling is the Golden Hawks also have something to prove early in the year. In a squeaker...Beca 21-20.