Quakertown– The North Penn Knights continued their undefeated march with a commanding 42-7 non-league victory over the Quakertown Panthers at Alumni Field on Friday night. A relentless rushing attack and a stingy defense propelled the Knights to a performance that was as entertaining as it was dominant, showcasing their depth and versatility on both sides of the ball.
A Ground Game That Couldn’t Be Stopped
North Penn’s backfield was a showcase of talent, with a trio of running backs overwhelming Quakertown’s defense. Senior Matt Pownall, a Navy commit, led the charge with 78 yards on 12 carries and a rushing touchdown, while also hauling in a 17-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Matt Bucksar. Junior Rylei Grey contributed a 20-yard touchdown run and locked down Quakertown’s receivers on defense. Sophomore Ziyon Smith punctuated the Knights’ ground dominance with a 13-yard rushing score to cap the evening. Senior Cam Mainor added 64 yards on just four carries, caught two passes for 34 yards, and converted a two-point conversion, displaying his determination to seize every opportunity. “They can’t stop us,” Mainor declared post-game. “You got [Pownall, Grey, Smith, and others] and then the O-line. It’s crazy.” Head coach Dick Beck praised the flexibility of his backfield, noting, “It’s nice that we can be flexible with those guys. Rylei and Matty play defense, so when they need a break ... Everybody can stay fresh. All those guys can make plays.” The offensive line set the tone, opening gaping holes for the backs. “I thought tonight our offensive line had the best night they’ve had this season,” Beck said. “Our backs had a great night running the ball. I thought we struggled early throwing the ball, but that two-minute drill at the end of the half was as good as you could get.” Pownall echoed his coach’s sentiment, emphasizing the team effort: “Yeah, it was great team football, plus the o-line allowed us to run the ball the ‘North Penn Way, ' and the defense only gave up seven points, so great team football.”
A Defensive Masterclass
North Penn’s defense was equally impressive, stifling Quakertown’s offense and limiting the Panthers to just eight first downs. The defensive line, led by Jack Silvers, relentlessly pressured Quakertown’s dual-threat quarterback Brady Martin. Despite Martin’s athleticism and toughness—evading pressure and showcasing his arm—the Knights’ secondary, anchored by Pownall, Grey, Sal Colella, and Jack Staugaitis, locked down passing lanes and prevented big plays. Martin, who also starts at safety for Quakertown, showed flashes of brilliance but couldn’t find consistent success against North Penn’s disciplined unit. “I thought defensively we were flying around,” Beck said. “I would have liked to get the quarterback down more, but the kid is so good, he’s so tough to tackle.” Quakertown head coach George Banas took responsibility for his team’s struggles, acknowledging North Penn’s dominance. “Missed way too many tackles and had a couple blown coverage assignments, as well,” Banas said. “That’s on me [because] I’m the [defensive coordinator]. We didn’t execute. It’s a shame because you only get 11 of these a year. You hate to miss as bad as we did. North Penn’s a great ball club. [I have a] lot of respect for them. All three of their running backs are phenomenal.”
Standout Performances (CDS Wealth Management) Player(s) of the Game
Mainor’s breakout performance was a highlight, as the senior reflected on his growth. “It feels great to get the opportunity,” he said. “Last year, I was a player who got an opportunity but didn’t really make the best of it. I didn’t take advantage of my opportunities. Senior, I’m comin’ different, ya feel me? I’m trying to do anything I can with any opportunities I have.” For Quakertown, Brady Martin’s resilience stood out, even in defeat. His dual-role performance as quarterback and safety raises questions about why this tough-as-nails athlete remains under the radar for college recruiters. As one observer noted, “Time will tell, right?” North Penn’s balanced attack and suffocating defense signal they’re a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses. For Quakertown, it’s back to the drawing board to address missed tackles and coverage lapses before their next matchup. With this emphatic win, the Knights continue to play “the North Penn Way,” blending physicality, depth, and execution. If Friday night was any indication, this team is poised for a deep run.
Looking Ahead
Quakertown (1-2, 0-0) will travel to Bensalem (2-1, 0-0) in a Continental Conference Clash.
North Penn (3-0, 0-0) heads to Neshaminy (2-1, 0-0) in a National Conference Showdown.