LH’s Rankin selected 2nd team Class AAA
Randy Rankin’s move back to wide receiver in his senior season was productive as the top receiver in the WPIAL on a Laurel Highlands squad that advanced to the WPIAL Class AAA playoffs. Rankin’s productive season was recognized once again by his selection to the AP Class AAA All-State Football Team as a wide receiver on the second team.
Laurel Highlands coach Jack Buehner was understandably pleased and proud of Rankin’s honor.
“He’s such a good athlete. He led the WPIAL in catches, but he can play defense, too,” praised Buehner. “I’m super proud of him. He certainly deserves it.”
Rankin had a WPIAL-leading 62 receptions for 814 yards with five touchdowns. He pulled off a successful flea-flicker for a touchdown in the win over Albert Gallatin that helped propel the Mustangs to the WPIAL playoffs. Rankin also had five interceptions.
In this day of internet-savvy teenagers, Rankin already knew of his honor before Buehner gave him a call.
“I was excited,” Rankin said of finding out of honor. “It was a great season. I wish we would have won a playoff game.”
Once the off-season decision was made to return Rankin to wide receiver, he worked hard at his craft as well as with his relationship with quarterback Dan Pegg.
“(In his junior year) we tried to convert him to running back, but he had a high ankle sprain and didn’t finish the season,” explained Buehner. “We talked to him about the switch back to wide receiver, and he worked hard in the off-season. We knew we could count on him.
“Dan Pegg stepped up as quarterback. They were compatible on the field, and friends off the field.”
Rankin confirmed his relationship with his quarterback.
“Dan knew what we were doing against certain defenses. We are best friends,” said Rankin. “It was easy for us.”
The state nod only affirms what Buehner, his staff and the rest of the Keystone Conference coaches felt what kind of player Rankin was.
“He was the top receiver in the conference and the MVP of the conference,” said Buehner. “That showed what the other coaches in the conference see in him.”