The Fumbler rarely comes to the Post-Gazette offices any more because he said he can write his predictions column and keep a handle on Western Pennsylvania football at home.

Two years ago, Post-Gazette executive sports editor Jerry Micco came to The Fumbler's old penthouse in Etna and asked him if it was time to retire as the PG's high school football prognosticator. The Fumbler laughed.

This past Sunday, The Fumbler had hip replacement surgery, but said it won't stop him from getting on the road and making PIAA playoff predictions.

We know what you're thinking. The Fumbler's story sounds a lot like Joe Paterno's. Maybe, but The Fumbler knows when it's time to step down. And it's not now.

The Fumbler was 2-2 in WPIAL championship game predictions last week and is 24-4 (.857 pct.) in WPIAL postseason games the past three weeks. He is 51-13 overall in the playoffs, and his overall season record is 550-133 (.805 percentage)

Here are his thoughts on tonight's PIAA quarterfinal games involving WPIAL teams. All games are 7 p.m.

Bethel Park (13-0) vs. State College (12-0) at North Allegheny -- Bouncing back emotionally after beating Gateway in the WPIAL championship won't be easy for Bethel Park. But here's the good news: State College isn't as good as Gateway. The Little Lions are capable of giving Bethel Park a game, but not winning. Winner: Bethel Park.

Thomas Jefferson (12-1) vs. Strong Vincent (13-0) at Erie Veterans' Stadium -- There is a publication -- Pennsylvania Football News -- that has Strong Vincent ranked No. 1 in the state and Thomas Jefferson No. 2. The Post-Gazette has it the other way, and we all know the PG is never wrong. Thomas Jefferson will end Strong Vincent's season for the second year in a row. Winner: Thomas Jefferson.

Aliquippa (11-2) vs. Karns City (12-1) at Pine-Richland -- The Fumbler read where Aliquippa coach Mike Zmijanac wouldn't let his players throw Gatorade on him after winning the WPIAL title. The Fumbler doesn't let anyone throw ink on him after a good week of predictions. Karns City got beat by Jeannette and Terrelle Pryor a year ago in the PIAA playoffs. Aliquippa doesn't have anyone close to Pryor's skills, but the Quips have plenty for a run at a PIAA title. Winner: Aliquippa.

Windber (9-3) vs. Clairton (13-0) at Johnstown -- Windber has a vaunted running game, but Clairton hasn't given up more than seven points in a game all season. Not only will Windber have trouble scoring, it will have trouble stopping Clairton from scoring. Winner: Clairton.