TJ dynasty continues with Pugh at forefront

By Jose Negron

jnegron@yourmvi.com

When Jake Pugh took over the reins as Thomas Jefferson’s starting quarterback, he expressed his desire to help continue the program’s rich winning tradition. 

“I just have to carry on a legacy,” Pugh said in August. “I don’t wanna be the one that ruins the success here. Last year we were state champs, in past years we won the WPIAL and you don’t wanna to be the one that messes that up.”

Pugh and the Jaguars haven’t missed a beat after the program saw 13 key seniors depart from last year’s WPIAL and PIAA championship-winning team. 

TJ finished the regular season with a 5-1 record, suffering its lone loss in its finale against McKeesport. 

The Jaguars, who earned the No. 2 seed in the WPIAL Class 4A playoff bracket, went on to capture wins over Mars and Plum before picking up a dramatic 35-28 overtime win over Aliquippa to claim their second consecutive WPIAL title and 10th in program history. 

Pugh, who entered Friday’s PIAA semifinal with over 1,500 passing yards and 21 touchdowns, was a difference maker against the Quips. He tossed for two touchdowns and ran for a pair, including the game-winning score. 

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