Whitehall inaugurates the new Eastern Pennsylvania Conference by tackling Pocono Mountain West in the league opener set for this Friday.

In prior years, Whitehall usually opened with a non-conference opponent before settling into their Lehigh Valley Conference schedule. However, this year they take an early plunge into league action when they visit former Mountain Valley Conference denizen, PMW to kickoff the 2014 EPC campaign.

The Panthers were 3-7 last season Head coach Jim McCarroll still has a young squad, but Whitehall head coach Brian Gilbert believes the Panthers, along with their counterparts in the former MVC, will have something to prove in the new EPC.

"They're going to have something to prove and show they can beat the Lehigh Valley schools," said Gilbert.

Quarterback Qmac Quiteh leads the offense. The senior rushed for 706 yards last season, hitting paydirt nine times. He also threw for 398 yards, including three touchdowns. Quiteh will also see action at cornerback. In addition to Quiteh, sophomore A.J. Simon and seniors Chris Sanchez and Yashiyah Louissant will get their share of carries.

The Panthers run a wildcat package when Quiteh's under center, but Gilbert wants his team ready for anything. They could run the ball from that formation or decide to drop back and pass.

"We just want to be prepared for anything," said Gilbert. "They have a few guys who can run the ball really well, so we have to look out for everything."

Gilbert said they'll most likely "mix in some power running with their spread offense and go from there."

"I think that's what he's [McCarroll] looking to do," Gilbert said.

Gilbert said they're also really sound on defense. One of those players who help stabilize their defense is junior Jon Guiffrida. Gilbert said they don't employ a lot of different sets, but what they do defensively, they do well.

"They're just really well coached," he said.

As for the Zephs, they're looking to build on another dynamic season that saw them win a share of the LVC, culminating in a trip to the district playoffs.

The centerpiece of their offensive is their explosive running game led by Saquon Barkley. Barkley has stated that he wants to top 2,000 rushing yards this season, and Gilbert knows that Barkley wants to have a breakout year.

"I think that's what he's looking to do," said Gilbert. "Let's hope he does."

They'll also feature Gianni Sinatore at quarterback, a player who's demonstrated this summer he can hurt you with his arm as well as his legs. Additionally, senior fullback Jacob Buskirk can get the tough yards, while receivers Conor Sullivan and Chad Rex can hurt teams down the field.

Gilbert said they're excited to get the new season underway. The wait is almost over as they line up this Friday at 7:00 pm to usher in the new season.