Santana's Spencer Love en route to the first of his two touchdowns vs. Central. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE Sultans strike like lightning, stomp El Centro-Central to remain flawless at 4-0 By Andrew Smith © East County Sports.com SANTEE (9-24-11) — Entering Friday (Sept. 23) night’s game against El Centro Central, the potent offense of the Santana Sultans needed no spark. They won their first three games of the season, averaging 40 points a contest. But an unexpected spark from Mother Nature is exactly what they got as off in the distance there were huge flashes of lightning. In fact, it stopped the junior varsity game 4 ½ minutes before its conclusion. To make sure they got the game in before weather became an issue, the Sultans put on a show by going theirr best rendition of the 2000 St. Louis Rams' “Greatest Show on Turf” act by clobbering the Spartans, 56-6 to improve their flawless record to 4-0. Santana forced the Spartans to a three-and-out on their first five possessions while they got into the end zone on all six first-half possessions for good measure, calling checkmate even before halftime with a 49-0 advantage. The Sultans’ offense absolutely wasted no time on their first possession. Running back SPENCER LOVE got his first handoff of the night and took it 22 yards. No question one of the best pass-catch combinations in the San Diego CIF is Santana’s KYLE GASNER to LANDON LOZOYA. Gasner, the senior quarterback, already had passed for 735 yards and 6 TD’s in his first three games. He finished with 171 yards and 4 more scores against Central. On his first pass attempt of the night Gasner connected with Lozoya on a 28-yard fade route for the first of their two scoring hook-ups. After finding Arizona-bound tight end T.D. GROSS for his second score for 10 yards, Gasner hit Lozoya on a 5-yard hitch route and let his favorite target and East County’s leading receiver do the rest. The shifty and elusive wideout quickly spun and was swiftly on his way to paydirt with a 35-yard scoring strike. “I don’t really know how to explain it,” said the 6-3, 170-pound Lozoya. “I pretty much do the same move every time. I just caught the ball, beat my guy, broke a tackle and got some great blocks down to the sideline to spring me loose.” “That’s just Landon for you,” Gasner said. “He can just make plays, so I just give him the ball knowing he’s gonna do something good with it.” Only playing in the first half, Lozoya had 3 catches for 74 yards and two scores, while adding another 22 yards on a rush to boost his total yardage for the season to a whopping 701 all-purpose yards in only four games. With a 21-0 advantage, Love dominated the Spartans front seven and scored on the next two Sultans’ drives. He finished the game with 83 yards on only 9 carries and that would push the lead to 35-0. GARRETT HATH then caught a deep route from Gasner and out ran the defense for an 83-yard touchdown reception. On the ensuing possession for Central junior defensive lineman JAMES PARR intercepted a quick pass for Santana at the line of scrimmage and returned it 20 yards for a score. Parr is one of only 10 juniors on this senior-laden Sultans roster. JARETH RAYMOND also had a big night rushing as he took over in the second half, rushing 16 times for 95 yards and a score. “We played an amazing game,” Gasner said. “Our offensive line stepped it up like always and the defense was just stellar. It really was an overall well-rounded game out there. To be 4-0 my senior year is just amazing. I knew we had it in us, but we’re just going to keep pushing and it’s gonna get even better.” “It’s probably the best he’s ever played,” head coach DAVE GROSS said of Gasner. “He managed the team very well and having the help in the running game with Love and Raymond helped take some of the pressure off of him. “We’ve had a little problem with turnovers the past couple of games, so to be that efficient without turning the ball over was obviously huge. I was particularly pleased with that first half because we played flawless.” On the defensive side, KEVIN BRADY recorded 11 tackles and a sack, while JASON PATTERSON raised his East County-leading sack total to 8.5 with one quarterback mugging against the Spartans. Patterson also had 8 stops.

No crying at this birthday party Norsemen cruise past El Capitan © East County Sports.com LAKESIDE (9-24-11) — It was ANTHONY BUZZELL’s 17th birthday Friday (Sept. 23) night, but he wasn’t expecting a birthday cake with the appropriate number of candles. It was business as usual for the Valhalla senior linebacker, who helped the Norsemen crush host El Capitan, 49-14. In fact, there’s no party planned for Buzzell because he’ll be on the road Saturday (Sept. 24). Call it a recruiting trip as Puget Sound (Wash.) University extended an invitation for him to attend the Loggers football game Saturday at Whittier College. “I guess you could call that a pretty good present,” said Buzzell, who sports a 3.96 gpa and hopes to major in pre-med with a goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon. Of course, Buzzell knows about orthopedic surgery... two years ago he underwent shoulder surgery, and last season he went under the knife for a dislocated toe. Knock on wood. Buzzell’s pick against El Capitan (0-4) hardly had any effect on the game. Nonetheless it made him feel good. “I think JESUS VALERO got a hand on the ball and batted it in the air,” said the 5-foot-11, 215-pound Buzzell. “I looked up and there it was, so I grabbed it and started running. I like to think I’d go all the way, but I really don’t have that kind of speed. I went about 10 yards and got hit and then dragged a couple of guys another 10 yards before I went down. “I know I’m not a DB with that kind of speed,” he added. “But I also know I can drag guys a lot further than a DB can.” Valhalla’s superior team speed erased any chance the Vaqueros had of pulling off an upset, as the visiting Norsemen scored touchdowns on all three of their first quarter possessions. “All week long people kept saying this game was not going to be close,” Buzzell admitted. “I try to approach every game with a neutral outlook, trying not to overlook anybody.” That’s what Valhalla coach CHARLES BUSSEY said he wants. “It’s like I preached from the beginning of the season,” Bussey said. “Our focus needs to be on the play at hand and nothing else. And I think our kids are starting to buy into that – we can’t look at the play behind or the play ahead. Everything’s in the present.” Wide receiver JEVON HASTEN grabbed 3 passes for 63 yards and a pair of touchdowns as quarterback FRANK FOSTER clicked on 8 of 11 passes for 161 yards. “Jevon had the kind of game we’ve always expected of him, and we hope this is the first of many,” Bussey said. Meanwhile the Vaqueros wanted to eat clock and set the tempo at a crawl in an attempt to corral Valhalla ’s swift runners. The Norsemen got a steady diet of El Cap senior running back JOSH MURPHY and junior AUSTIN WATSON popping short yardage gains on the ground to start the game, but after El Capitan reached Valhalla territory, the drive stalled and jack of all trades Murphy (running back, quarterback, wide receiver, punter) had to kick his first of 6 punts, giving Valhalla its first offensive series at its own 36-yard line. On first down, Norsemen slotback JIHAD ELDER peeled off 25 quick yards, advancing the ball to the Vaqueros’ 39-yard line. Two plays later wide receiver Hasten got behind the secondary as Foster threw a strike into the end zone for a 32-yard touchdown. AMMON DUNN (7-7 PAT’s for the evening) stroked the ball through the uprights and Norsemen led 7-0 less than 4 minutes into the game. On the ensuing kickoff, good downfield coverage pinned the Vaqueros at their 6-yard line as KENNETH DeMARS drilled the ball carrier. El Capitan couldn’t get anything going on offense as Valhalla defensive back KEVIN BROWN knocked down a pass that looked like it was going for big yardage. Once again Murphy had to punt, this time a 49-yarder that gave the Norsemen good field position at their 40. On first down, Foster scampered 18 yards to the Vaqueros’ 42-yard line; two plays later he hooked up with running back KYLE QUARLES for an 18-yard pass/catch to the El Capitan 22-yard line, and then found wide receiver BEN HOWARD wide open for a 19-yard gain to the 3-yard line. Foster strolled into the end zone on the next play, increasing the lead to 14-0. Still sputtering on offense when it got the ball back, El Capitan had to punt once again, this time from its 36-ard line. Valhalla punt returner ROBERT RUIZ started from his 29-yard line and weaved his way down the field all the way to the Vaqueros’ 13-yard line, where a touchdown-saving tackle by the versatile Murphy ended Ruiz’ 53-yard punt return, but the Norsemen were once again knocking at the door. Foster added another TD when he followed the middle of his offensive line into the end zone from 1 yard out, making it 21-0 with 1 second left in the first quarter. After Norsemen defensive tackle ANDREW DAOUD sacked quarterback JAKE ALVERNAZ for an 8-yard loss on the second play of the second stanza, Valhalla’s Ruiz excited the crowd just a few seconds later when he returned a booming 59-yard Murphy punt to the El Cap 20-yard line for another 50+ yard punt return, aided and abetted by linebacker CHRIS FARRELL’S pancake block on a would-be tackler that sprung Ruiz. Three plays later, Elder popped into the endzone on a 1-yard run, extending the lead to 28-0, with 9:34 left to play before halftime. It didn’t get any better for the Vaqueros on their next offensive series. Farrell sacked Alvernaz for an 8-yard loss on second down. This allowed De’SHAWN TONE and JONATHAN CLARK to pin their ears back on third down and get after Alvernaz; their relentless pressure forced the quarterback to throw away the ball to avoid yet another sack, which resulted in another Murphy punt. Once again, Ruiz had an excellent return, this time for 25 yards to midfield; five plays later, Quarles bulled his way into the end zone from 2 yards out, giving the Norsemen a 35-0 halftime lead – and a running clock for the second half. Valhalla received the football to start the second half, and quickly advanced into Vaquero territory when senior linebacker MACKENZIE MAXWELL broke through the line and nearly sacked Foster, hitting his arm as he was starting to throw. That fired up the defense; on the next play Foster was flushed out of the pocket but connected with Hasten for a 24-yard gain to the El Capitan 32-yard line. Five plays later Foster found Hasten open in the rear of the end zone for a 6-yard TD and a 42-0 lead halfway through the third period. El Capitan finally got a break late in the third period when a Valhalla runner fumbled deep in its own territory, giving the Vaqueros great field position at the Valhalla 19-yard line, aided by a 15-yard personal foul penalty against the visitors. With Murphy moving to quarterback, the Vaqueros finally got on the board when he threw a strike to GRANT KILBY for a 6-yard TD. Late in the 4th quarter, El Cap added another touchdown, when MICHAEL NUZZO rambled 20 yards, shortening the lead to 42-14 with 1:54 left in the game. On the following kickoff, however, Valhalla’s KEVIN MILLS, perhaps the fastest player in East County, motored 95 yards to the end zone.

JV Football Week 4 Results Santana 20, El Centro-Central 0 Monte Vista 26, Mar Vista 26 (tie) Granite Hills 36, San Diego HS 20 Valhalla 35, El Capitan 28 West Hills 49, Kearny 21 Steele Canyon 14, Eastlake 0 Christian 28, Brawley 20 (first loss by Brawley in three years) Only scores reported Frosh Football Week 4 Results West Hills 38, Kearny 0 Valhalla 22, El Capitan 0 San Diego HS 24, Granite Hills 6 El Centro-Central 35, Santana 14 Steele Canyon 28, Eastlake 18 Monte Vista df. Francis Parker Grossmont 35, Orange Glen 0 Only scores reported

© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (9-24-11) — Steele Canyon showed some mettle and promise, and against most other teams that might have been enough.

Not against Eastlake. Not against the No. 1-ranked team in the San Diego Section. Not on Friday night (Sept. 23).

Eastlake (4-0) scored once in every quarter – twice after big plays and twice after Steele Canyon fumbles – to come away with a 25-7 win in a non-league game at Steele Canyon.

“You don’t face the No. 1 team in the county and make the few mistakes like we did today,” Cougars coach RON BOEHMKE said. “They’re just too good.”

Eastlake piled up 392 total yards, and perhaps more importantly, did not turn the ball over in its 65 plays.

“We told our guys all week, ‘Hold onto the ball, and we’ll win this game,’ ” said Titans coach John McFadden, who posted his 100th victory. “And we did. That was a nice win for us.”

Gipper's 100th

The Ronald Reagan Bronze Medallion

Sportsmanship Day honors Reagan's birthday centennial © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (9-22-11) — More than 14,000 high schools from throughout the country, along with colleges and the NFL, will participate in the Ronald Reagan Nat'l. Football Coin Toss for Sportsmanship at games this weekend (Sept. 22-26). The event will commemorate the 100th birthday of the late president and avid football fan, who starred in such films as Knute Rockne: All American." more

NOTES — Over the weekend, a receiver from Camarillo High caught a state-record 28 passes... and his team still easily lost. MORE. National Record Book: HERE

Week 4 Scoreboard HERE

They drove to the Eastlake 15-yard line in the first quarter but two incomplete passes preceded a missed 32-yard field-goal attempt by DANIEL URIBE. They drove to the Eastlake 26-yard line late in the second quarter, but the drive stalled with an incompletion, a fumbled snap and an incompletion on fourth-and-4.

The Cougars drove to the Eastlake 15-yard line again in the third quarter – thanks to a 48-yard pass from T.J. CARLYON to CHANCELLER JAMES – but fumbled two plays later and the Titans’ Nasser Ali recovered it. Ali had another fumble recovery on the Cougars’ second play of the second half. Eastlake scored after both fumbles.

“You can’t squander those opportunities,” Boehmke said. “Those were big momentum changes.”

Another problem was consistency in moving the chains. Of Steele Canyon’s 12 offensive possessions, only two of them lasted more than three plays. The Cougars had only 10 first downs, and JAKE RUYSSCHAERT punted six times.

Still, Boehmke said, “I liked our kids’ composure throughout the game. When we got behind against Cathedral (a 27-7 loss to start the season), we kind of lost our composure a little bit. We didn’t do that tonight.”

Eastlake’s Jude Isbell finished with 108 rushing yards on 16 carries. He had the first of the Titans’ titanic plays with a 24-yard pickup that led to an Isiah Olave 4-yard touchdown run seven minutes into the game.

Steele answered with an 11-play, 54-yard drive, but the missed field goal negated that.

Midway through the second quarter, Eastlake’s Tavarus Green took a handoff on a sweep right and raced untouched 74 yards for a TD and a 13-0 lead.

“He’s a real-deal guy,” McFadden said.

Steele answered with a 12-play, 51-yard drive, but gave the ball over on downs.

Early in the third quarter, Eastlake quarterback Josh Palet hit Joseph Caprizo with a perfect pass on a post pattern that went for a 35-yard TD and a 19-0 lead. It would have been 21-0, but the Cougars’ MICHAEL JORDAN made a nice juggling interception on Eastlake’s 2-point conversion attempt.

Moments later, the Cougars cut the lead to 19-7 as Tuff burst up the middle, found daylight and raced 56 yards for the score.

Olave, who had only seven carries coming into the game, scored his second touchdown on a 9-yard run in the fourth quarter, and this time BRANDON HOWARD blocked the PAT kick.

Said McFadden of Olave: “He keeps stepping up. Last week, he was our defensive player of the week.”

Well aware of Eastlake’s depth and skill, Steele Canyon still was hoping to avenge what the Cougars felt was a stolen victory last year when Palet tossed a 21-yard TD pass with 15 seconds left in the game to lift Eastlake to a 20-17 win. Prior to that snap, an Eastlake receiver clearly jumped early, but there was no flag from the officials.

Eastlake, the 2009 CIF Division I champion, went on to finish 10-0 in the regular season last year before losing to Mira Mesa in the semifinals. Steele Canyon finished 9-3 after losing to Mission Hills 24-14 in the Division II semifinals.

“They always do a great job,” McFadden said. “They’ve got a great coaching staff. We know it’s going to be a battle every time we play them.”

In addition to his blocked kick, Howard also broke up three long pass plays, each time getting his hand up in the receiver’s face just as the ball arrived. There were other bright spots. While the offense did not allow a sack, the defense recorded two – one by BENJAMIN GOSSMEYER and a shared sack by JAMAL O’GEESE and O’SHEA SMITH.

“The defense definitely is a strength of ours,” Boehmke said, “and they played well, except a couple of those big plays.”

Christian's Jack Vanderbilt with the runback of his first-half interception. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

BRAWLEY 22, CHRISTIAN 19 – Head coach MATT OLIVER could not believe his eyes as he watched Friday’s (Sept. 23) second-half implosion by his Christian High Patriots against Brawley at Valley Stadium.

“It was like we were a completely different team after halftime,” Oliver said.

The first half belonged to Colorado-bound Patriots quarterback SHANE DILLON, who was on target for 18 of 22 aerials totaling 180 yards and three touchdowns. Two of those scores went to JASON GAINES, covering 6 and 4 yards in the opening two quarters. Dillon also zeroed in on PHILLIP GEORGE for a 23-yard scoring strike.

In the second half, the Patriots (2-2) were blanked. Dillon was only 9-for-21 for 77 yards.

“They started to double-team Gaines and it kinda neutralized him on the offensive side,” Oliver said. “We still had a chance to put them away in the 3rd quarter, leading 19-7, but threw an interception that kept us from applying the knockout punch.

“In the first half we totally outplayed them; in the second half it the other way around. I know we’re the better team, but they outplayed us. We really didn’t have any big plays in the clutch.”

Oliver cited that the Patriots fumbled a kickoff at their own 9-yard line that Brawley turned into a touchdown.

“We just can’t seem to get a decent snap on conversion attempts, which really hurts, especially in a close game,” he said. “One snap we fumbled and never got off the kick. That’s a part of our game that we have to clean up.”

Gaines, playing in his first game of the season, caught 10 passes for 89 yards, while KYLE HARRIS snagged 6 aerials for 87 yards.

RAYVON OWENS led a meek Christian running game with 16 carries for 76 yards. Nearly half of Owens’ total came off one carry – a 37-yard burst.

“We need to get our running game going a little bit better than it is now,” said Oliver.

Brawley (2-1) did not complete a pass all night.

Christian senior quarterback Shane Dillon. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com)

SAN DIEGO 38, GRANITE HILLS 12 – Undefeated Granite Hills self-destructed in Friday’s (Sept. 23) non-league game at Balboa Stadium.

“You can’t get away with that against a quality team like San Diego ,” said Eagles coach RANDY DeWITT. “I mean, that’s a good team that will probably go 8-2 or 9-1.”

At the moment the Cavers are 3-1 following Friday’s relatively easy romp over Granite Hills (3-1).

After a muffed punt set up a San Diego score in the first quarter, the Eagles went into catch-up mode. But the mistakes continued, allowing San Diego to extend its advantage to 21-0.

“Our goal was to contain their passing and we were pretty much able to do that,” said DeWitt of Cavers three-year starting quarterback, Khari Kimbrough (12-27, 152, 1 TD). “I thought we did a good job on defense, forcing them to do what they don’t prefer to do, which is run the ball.”

Wrong.

Actually the Cavers ran wild, stacking up 247 yards on 28 carries.

“That’s the sign of a good football team, right there,” DeWitt said. “We think we take them out of their game, and they adjust.”

The Eagles struggled to get much of anything going offensively as they totaled 257 yards, including a 25-yard touchdown run by KYLE NORRIS and a 9-yard scoring scamper by DYLAN WHITTINGHAM.

Granite Hills quarterback DYLAN ANDREWS completed 11 of 18 passes for 98 yards, but the so-called Eagles stronghold produced only 149 yards on 43 rushes in what was supposed to be their strong suit on the offensive side.

“Everybody hates to lose and we’re no different,” said DeWitt. “I know it may sound funny but this was a good thing to play this team. Just about every team in our league (Grossmont Hills League) plays at their level. The lesson we learn from a game like this is we can never be complacent or let up at all if we want to be in the (SDCIF Division I) playoffs.”

Norris led the Eagles ground troops with 64 yards on a dozen carries and caught two passes for 32 yards.

MICHAEL MILLIEN added 50 yards on 15 rushes, while TAYLOR FLEURY topped Granite Hills receivers with 62 yards.

“To beat a good team you have to make big plays,” DeWitt said. “We just didn’t do that.”

KEARNY 34, WEST HILLS 14 – After one half, West Hills coach TAY SNEDDON was pretty pleased with his Wolf Pack, which was coming off a bye and seeking its first win on Friday night (Sept. 23).

Thanks to touchdown runs of 24 and 4 yards by RYAN WILLIAMS, coupled with PAT kicks by JOSH MCINTIRE, the Pack led 14-12 at intermission.

“We played right with them in the first half,” Sneddon said.

Kearny rolled 22-0 in the final two quarters.

“In the second half, they completely dominated,” the Wolf Pack coach lamented. “Playing Kearny was tough. We played one half of football.”

Williams accounted for 55 yards on 24 rushes, while quarterback RASHAAN MILLER clicked on 13 of 32 aerials for 166 yards.

“Our quarterback played fairly well tonight,” Sneddon added. “His three interceptions hurt us. We are such a young team – it seems like every mistake we make hurts us.”

KAVIKA WILLIAMS caught five passes for 25 yards, while JARROD KLIMCZYK reeled in three balls for 59 yards for West Hills (0-3).

PATRICK HENRY 31, EL CAJON VALLEY 12 – VIRNEL MOON slashed for 102 yards and one touchdown on nine carries Friday night (Sept. 23) as visiting El Cajon Valley pounded its way for 235 yards rushing in falling to Patrick Henry in a non-league game at Madison High.

Moon also completed two of eight passes for 69 yards and logged 67 yards in kick returns.

The Braves (0-4) took a 12-7 first quarter lead but faltered on offense the rest of the way.

“We started out well but we had too many penalties – close to 100 yards – on both sides of the ball,” said Braves coach NORMAN WHITEHEAD. “It sure is tough when you are facing 3rd-and-15 and 3rd-and-20 all the time. There aren’t too many plays in a playbook for situations like that.”

A 21-point second quarter swung things around to Henry’s favor.

“We didn’t play well on third downs on defense,” White head said. “We let them off the hook too much. For instance, Henry’s quarterback dropped back to pass on a 3rd-and-long and three of our guys had a shot at him to get a sack. He got away and ran for 40 yards.”

Defensively, the Braves limited the Patriots to 184 yards.

SAN YSIDRO 21, FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 0 – On paper, this bout was a colossal mismatch. On the scoreboard, it was 0-0 at halftime.

Division V Foothills Christian (3-1) put up a valiant fight against San Diego CIF Division I member San Ysidro (2-2) in a nonleague game at Junior Seau Field. San Ysidro boasts 11 times the school in enrollment than does Foothills Christian, according to the SDCIF enrollment charts: 2,640-234.

With three fumbles deep their own territory, the Knights simply provided advantages the defense could not withstand. That created a short field, and the Cougars were quick to capitalize.

“We had a brief lapse there in the second half where fumbles hurt us,” Foothills coach THOM LUBIC admitted. “Other than that our defense played extremely well, as it usually does.”

The Knights’ offense never got untracked as rushing leader SPENCER GEORGE watched from the sidelines with a thumb injury. The seriousness of George’s malady may be more dire than first feared.

Word from George’s brother, Travis, this could a season-ending injury – a fracture and broken chips inside the thumb – that may require surgery.

If there is any chance for a speedy recovery by George the Knights can count on having a bye next week.

“Actually I’m glad we with played these big guys (with 300-pound linemen),” Lubic said. “It will help prepare us for our league. We definitely will not see a team like this in our league.”

BEN HOUSLY, RICKY ADAMS, and DANIEL GOULDING steered the defense as the leading tacklers, and TREVOR TINNY led the co-stars with some key stops. Adams was a bright spot with 6 punts and a 49.8 yard average.

MAR VISTA 44, MONTE VISTA 0 – One key play and the temporary absence on a standout player left host Monte Vista on the short side in Friday's (Sept. 23) non-league game at Monarchs Stadium.

Following a big hit by Mariners outside linebacker Adrian Iriate, teammate Landor Clark scooped the loose ball and rumbled 56 yards for a touchdown with 46 seconds left in the first half to mount a 16-0 lead.

And when Monte Vista defensive end MESSAI SMALL came out of the contest after he rolled his ankle during a fumble, Mar Vista simply continued to run its double-wing attack to the weak side to mount five touchdowns on 283 rushing yards.

The line play allowed Mar Vista running backs Jimmie Hill (12-126 yards, two TDs) and Jorfan Lertique (11-77, three TDs) to dominate on the ground.

Meanwhile, the defense of the Mariners (3-0) posted their second straight shutout to remain unbeaten. The Monarchs fell to 1-3.

Both bounced through the line for long scoring runs in the third period, as Lertique raced 38 yards for a 24-0 lead, then Hill romped 60 yards to mount a 30-point cushion.

Meanwhile, Monte Vista was limited to just 89 yards in total offense and a mere six first downs, including just one – by penalty – in the second half.

Monte Vista gained a pair of first downs on the opening drive, but were forced to finally punt. Otherwise, the best play for the Monarchs came on the final play during running clock when JOEY GONSALVES raced 45 yards on a kickoff runback.

Valhalla's Kyle Quarles (24) flexes to prevent El Capitan defender Damon Donahoo from jarring loose the football. The Norsemen blocker is Jevon Hasten (right). (Photo by Don DeMars)

Valhalla quarterback Frank Foster (10) is forced out of bounds by El Capitan's Damon Donahoee following a nice gainer in Friday's 49-14 nonleague triumph. (Photo by Don DeMars)

© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (9-23-11) — The last time these teams met in Sept. 2010, the game ended in controversy.

Only seconds after falling to the Titans 20-17, Steele Canyon coach RON BOEHMKE said, “They stole one from us. We just feel like we got homered. Our house had been broken into by thieves and we lost everything. The only difference is we can’t call the insurance company.”

“We got away with one there,” Eastlake coach John McFadden admitted.

Boehmke hasn’t forgotten.

“That was basically the last play of the game and their wingback was clearly offsides according to the films,” he said. “Even the officials association admitted that they blew the call.”

Instead of whining about the past, Boehmke is focused on the future. He never used the word “payback,” but no doubt the Cougars are looking to do so.

The chance of knocking off No. 1 ranked Eastlake (3-0) is certainly a goal for the Cougars (2-1).

“People don’t expect us to win,” Boehmke said. “And that’s OK. It allows us to take more risks and gambles, but at the same time this is a huge game in terms of playoff implications. A win here would be huge for our program.”

Boise State-bound CHANCELLER JAMES has been a mainstay in the Cougars’ secondary and as a wide receiver.

Recruited primarily as a defensive back, James turned down offers from Colorado , San Diego State , Arizona and the Air Force Academy among others.

Defense has been the backbone for Steele Canyon.

“Actually our defense has only given up one touchdown all season,” Boehmke said. “We have a lot of talent on that side of the ball.”

The Cougars are 0-4 against the Titans. Can they snap that skid this year?... Eastlake 28-17.

EL CENTRO-CENTRAL (2-1) at SANTANA (3-0) – In what will probably be his final season, Santana coach DAVE GROSS, who sports a career record of 123-147-4, will lead the Sultans against one of his protégés in Friday’s night’s (Sept. 23) non-league game at Santee Community Stadium.

Central Union head coach Mike Hobbs, a graduate of El Capitan who spent six years as an assistant coach for Gross at Santana, will make a homecoming of sorts.

“It’s like I told our kids, Coach Hobbs knows our offense and defense so we can’t let him take advantage of us. It just means we have to have a greater effort to make sure we come out on top.”

Not that Gross and Hobbs are enemies – the two plan to attend Saturday’s (Sept. 24) University of Arizona game against Oregon in Tucson.

No question, the key to Santana’s attack is LANDON LOZOYA, who is East County’s all-purpose running leader with 605 yards and 24 points.

Quarterback KYLE GASNER has also been on target for the Sultans, clicking on more than 54 percent of 70 passes for 735 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Actually the vocal leader for the Sultans is 6-foot-6, 254-pound tight end T.D. GROSS, the coach’s son, who has a scholarship to Arizona in hand.

The Sultans have not beaten Central Union in their previous two meetings. Look for a change this time around... Santana 35-14.

VALHALLA (2-1) at EL CAPITAN (0-3) – Coach RON BURNER can’t believe the number of injuries his El Capitan Vaqueros have sustained in the first three weeks of the season.

“It’s been a nightmare around here,” he said. “On our varsity alone we’ve had three broken legs, a broken collarbone, a dislocated elbow, two separated shoulders, an MCL tear, two concussions, a finger with a compound fracture, and one turf toe.”

Raise the white flag?

“How much worse can it get,” Burner queried. “It’s not like we sit out here and pound on each other in practice. We practice like we always have.”

To make matters worse, quarterback JAKE ALVERNAZ (36-62, 539 yds, 4 TDs) was suffering from flu symptoms in Wednesday night’s practice.

“Going against a team like Valhalla it’s gonna take one of those ‘miracle on ice’ deals for us,” Burner said. “I’ve had to bring up three JV kids just to fill out our varsity roster.”

One positive note for El Capitan is versatile JOSH MURPHY is feeling fine.

Valhalla coach CHARLES BUSSEY is a little bit empathetic but is more interested in looking out for his own team.

“We’re going into a two-week period (where the Norsemen face the Vaqueros and Monte Vista) that could determine our whole season,” he said. “Those teams are only a combined 1-5, but if we lose our focus they could hurt us. We can’t take anybody lightly.”

Bussey noted that El Capitan runs a similar offense that the Norsemen do.

“That No. 13 (Murphy) is a big play guy and their quarterback knows how to put the ball on the money.”

If Bussey were to pinpoint a key to victory it would be “We need to put them away early.”

With quarterback FRANK FOSTER at the helm that goal is certainly attainable for the Norsemen.

Valhalla’s huddle is full of game-breakers including slotback KEVIN MILLS, arguably the fastest player in East County.

These teams have split the last four meetings, but the Norsemen won 38-13 last year. What has to concern El Capitan is that Valhalla scored a 70-7 win in 2005.

Injuries aside, it won’t be that lop-sided that time... Valhalla 42-13.

GRANITE HILLS (3-0) at SAN DIEGO (2-1), 6:30 – The preseason goal of Granite Hills coach RANDY DeWITT is to conduct a 4-0 sweep of Division I opponents. So far, so good.

DeWitt’s crew has bowled over Chula Vista (22-21) and Sweetwater (28-14). San Diego is also a Division I team that the Eagles sorely need to beat.

There are 18 teams in Division I, DeWitt noted, and 12 make the playoffs. Thus if the Eagles can do a fly-by of San Diego and beat Grossmont down the road, their playoff standing should be pretty solid.

“That’s why this game is so important,” DeWitt said. “Our goal is to have a playoff home game, and that means you have to have a decent seed.”

No question that Granite Hills has a quality blend between offense and defense. Senior quarterback DYLAN ANDREWS has completed 25 of 37 passes (without suffering an interception) with 302 yards and 7 touchdowns in two games.

“Our first choice is to run the ball and throw when we want to,” DeWitt said. “Dylan has given us a great opportunity to put the ball in the air and that’s really helpful.”

The mainstays of the Granite Hills running stable are MICHAEL MILLIEN (41-222 yards, 2 TDs) and KYLE NORRIS (350 all-purpose yards). Not to be overlooked is DYLAN WHITTINGHAM who has mustered 107 yards on 22 carries.

San Diego quarterback KHARI KIMBROUGH, a four-year starter, is the ringleader of the Cavers’ offense.

He’s probably a bigger running threat but can also throw on the mark.

“This San Diego team has been together for four years so you know they’re cohesive,” said DeWitt. “Their coach (Keir Kimbrough) expects his team to go deep into the Division I playoffs. I’d like to think we can go toe-to-toe with them.”

Granite Hills leads the all-time series 4-2, having won the past two games 38-0 in 2006 and 21-12 in 2005, but this one will be a major test... San Diego 21-20.

SAN YSIDRO (1-2) vs. FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN (3-0) at Seau Field, 7:30 – Despite being a Division V (small school) outfit, the Knights will jump from playing one of the CIF San Diego Section's smallest schools in Julian (a 33-0 victory last week) to meeting a Division I (large enrollment school) opponent in San Ysidro.

“San Ysidro brought in a new coaching staff and needed some games in (summer) passing league,” Knights coach THOM LUBIC said. “After playing them, it seemed like a good idea to play them despite the school being so much bigger than us. I really think we can be competitive with them.”

The Knights, who lists just 25 players on the roster, will gain several new recruits who became eligible this week, which could push the total squad to near 30. Yet, they will not be at full strength as three key players will watch from the sidelines.

Included in that inactive trio is junior running back SPENCER GEORGE (56-405 yards, 5 TDs), who will miss this one with a hand injury. Two others starters will be missing due to nagging injuries – defensive backs A.J. HOFFMAN and MARK HUNTER – but Lubic has not written this game off.

“I have all the confidence in the world that DRE BROWN and LEVI MICHAUD will pick up our running game because we still have our offensive line intact,” the coach said.

Of course defense has been Foothills Christian’s strength in the early part of the season. Fact is, the Knights have given up only one touchdown.

“If we can muscle up a couple of TDs I think our defense can hold them and we’ll come out on top. Despite our injuries, I still feel good about this game.”

Just how much that will help remains to be seen... UPSET SPECIAL... Foothills Christian 16-14.

CHRISTIAN (2-1) vs. BRAWLEY (1-1) at Granite Hills – This is an interesting matchup in that Christian loves to pass and Brawley loves its ball-control running game.

If the Patriots don’t become too satisfied with back-to-back impressive wins over Linfield Christian and Verbum Dei, they should be able to make it three in a row following a season-opening loss to Hoover.

Scoring points has been no problem for the SHANE DILLON-led Patriots the past week. Sure-handed senior receivers KYLE HARRIS and JOSH FELDSCHER are gaining a veteran grip. The addition of senior JASON GAINES (6-foot-4, 200) to the receiving corps is only going to make the Patriots more potent through the air.

“Gaines is just a beast,” Christian head coach MATT OLIVER said. “I’m talking about on both sides of the ball. He gives another big receiver to go with Harris (6-2, 170). I’m sure that will cause matchup problems for Brawley.”

Gaines, who also plays defensive end, will fortify the defense along with the return of inside linebacker TRENT SAULS (6-0, 205).

Should Christian elect to look past Brawley the Patriots will surely be sorry.

These teams met for the first time last season, with the Patriots surviving the trek to the Imperial Valley to secure a 28-10 verdict... Christian 30-12.

MAR VISTA (2-0) at MONTE VISTA (1-2) – Monarchs coach PAGE CULVER views Friday’s (Sept. 23) non-league encounter against visiting Mar Vista as a “game of attrition.”

“They are a big, physical team that is going to try to bludgeon us with a straight-ahead power running game,” Culver said. “They don’t try to trick you, they run that double-wing in hopes of steamrollering you.”

Culver noted that the Monarchs are familiar with the Mariners offensive attack.

“It’s not difficult for us to simulate in practice,” he said. “The game should come down to the mental part of finishing.”

Monte Vista’s kingpin is senior JAMES SYKES (42-382 yards, 3 TDs).

“He’s getting better every week,” Culver said of the 5-foot-11, 177-pound running back. “I guess the thing I’d say about him is he’s slippery. He’s not big and physical where he’s going to run over people, but he’s elusive and won’t let you get a clean shot at him.”

Inside linebacker PABLO FONSECA and defensive end MESSAI SMALL are the anchors of the Monte Vista defense.

These teams have never crossed paths before, but a Monte Vista upset may be asking too much... Mar Vista 21-14.

PATRICK HENRY (2-0) vs. EL CAJON VALLEY (0-3) at Madison, 6:30 – The Braves may be a touch overmatched in this one although they have held their own against two teams predicted to win their respective leagues.

By the same token, Patrick Henry has hardly shaken the Richter Scale in posting victories over San Ysidro (27-21) and Hilltop (10-7).

“This team is a lot like the guys we’ve been playing,” said El Cajon Valley coach NORMAN WHITEHEAD. “We’ve been close every time and this week we hope to get over the hump.”

One of the Braves’ unsung heroes is junior kicker IRVING VORBON, who ranks among East County’s elite kickers and punters.

“He has done an unbelievable job,” Whitehead said. “He can do all the kicks, and yes, he is good enough to play at the next level. It’s a matter of him deciding between kicking and soccer.”

VIRNEL MOON has been a two-way standout for El Cajon Valley. In last week’s loss to San Ysidro he blocked a field goal and rejected a punt.

El Cajon Valley has not beaten the Patriots since 1968 and has dropped three decisions to Henry following that 32-0 mugging... Patrick Henry 27-20.

KEARNY (1-2) at WEST HILLS (0-2) – Perhaps having a bye will be what the doctor ordered for first-year head coach TAY SNEDDON and his ailing West Hills Wolf Pack.

Led by quarterback Sean Booze (820 ypg, 11 TDs) the Komets have cranked out 111 points in three games but have not reaped the rewards due to a faulty defense. Against Santana, the Komets trailed 28-25 at halftime and wound up on the short end of 35-25 score.

The Wolf Pack looks to running back RYAN WILLIAMS (30-148, TD) and quarterback RASHAAN MILLER (23-44, 387, 2 TDs) to fire up the offense. As for defense, it’s been by the committee.

West Hills was slammed by Santana on opening night 42-7, but rebounded only to lose to La Jolla on a safety 23-21.

Based on comparative scores Kearny should roll with ease, so the pick here is... Kearny 27-19.

Valhalla quarterback Frank Foster (10) stretches to smack the pylon before falling out of bounds, scoring to help mount a 40-point lead over visiting Morse. (Photo by Don De Mars)

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
LOS ANGELES (9-18-11) — Senior SHANE DILLON passed for two touchdowns and ran for a third to help lead the visiting Christian High Patriots past Verbum Dei, 34-12, Saturday night (Sept. 17) at Los Angeles Southwest College.

Dillion, a 6-foot-6, 185-pound quarterback, completed 18 of 27 passes for 364 yards, including TD strikes to KYLE HARRIS of 55 and 26 yards.

“Shane was really on,” said Christian head coach MATT OLIVER. “Ever since that first game (a loss to Hoover) when he got hurt early, he’s really been clicking.”

Dillon also averaged 7 yards rushing on 3 carries. His quarterback sneak in the 3rd quarter gave the Patriots (2-1) a 22-6 lead.

Harris finished with four receptions for 119 yards against Verbum Dei, an all-male Archdiocesan college prep school located just a mile east of Hollywood Park.

JOSH FELDSCHER caught 8 passes for 109 yards and PHILLIP GEORGE snagged 4 aerials for 59 yards, while STAS ROMO reeled in 2 passes for 77 yards.

The long ball was definitely in vogue for the Patriots. Five of Dillon’s pass connections went for 40 yards or longer.

As an offensive unit the Patriots totaled 549 yards.

“We came up here and played extremely well against a team much bigger than we are,” Oliver said. “I mean, they had guys that weighed 300 pounds. One thing that was obvious though, especially in the second half, our smaller, quicker guys were in better shape. Verbum Dei was really dragging near the end of the 3rd quarter.”

Junior RAYVON OWENS rushed for 109 yards on 22 carries. He scored on a 3-yard run in the 2nd quarter and then caught a 2-point conversion pass from Feldscher, staking Christian to a 15-6 halftime lead.

“We gave Rayvon two game balls – one for offense and one for defense,” Oliver said. “He really ran the rock well and he was all over the field defensively.”

Other standouts in the Christian defense included junior two-way lineman TYLER LESLIE (6-0, 230).

“He’s probably been our MVP these last two games,” Oliver said of Leslie. “He plays every down in the trenches – mostly because we don’t have any depth. He never comes out.”

The Patriots veteran coach also heaped praise on sophomore middle linebacker SEBASTIAN SWIFT and sophomore safety ZANE COFFMAN.

One of the moments that made Oliver most proud was Christian’s goal-line stand in the 3rd quarter with the Patriots leading 28-6.

“This was probably the best goal-line stand we’ve had since 2007,” he said.

Verbum Dei (2-1) had a first-and-goal at the 1-yard line and couldn’t score.

“(Defensive coordinator MIKE MITCHELL) had a great defensive scheme for these guys,” Oliver added. “We basically shut them down all night.”

Mount Miguel running back Derrick Dunn led a ground game which rolled over Point Loma. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Monte Vista RB Gordy Juarez follows blockers Derek Torres (76) & Eric Owens. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Helix' Kendal Keys (3) high-steps in celebration following a touchdown. Behind Keys is Denning Crenshaw. (Photo by Ken Stone, LaMesaPatch) MORE PHOTOS by Bob Davis Scotties steamroll Cathedral Mount 48-0 lead over visitng Dons By Andrew Smith © East County Sports.com LA MESA (9-17-11) — To say the first half of the Helix High football schedule is soft would just be flat out wrong. That would be like peanut butter without the jelly, salt minus the pepper or Simon with no Garfunkel. It’s just not right. “Our thing right now is we want to win our last game,” Helix coach TROY STARR said. OTHER VIEWS After falling just a bit short against Eastlake in Week 1, the Highlanders have stepped onto the field two straight weeks and proved “there can only be one.” If you happened to be driving through La Mesa on Interstate 8 Friday (Sept. 16) night and heard a loud noise, it was most likely the statement the No. 2 rated Scotties made on the field against 4th-ranked Cathedral Catholic as they completely dismantled the Dons and dominated in every facet of the game in an impressive 48-14 victory. “We played really, really good tonight,” head coach TROY STARR understated. He might know a thing or two about being humble as he was an assistant coach at the University of Florida during Tim Tebow’s 2007 Heisman campaign. KACY SMITH made a big fourth down stop and GARY THOMPSON had a pair of sacks, both of which forced fumbles. Helix’s special teams unit harassed the Dons’ punter all night. “We just came out and played hard,” senior quarterback BRANDON LEWIS stated. “That’s what our coaches have been preaching to us all week.” Lewis got his squad on the scoreboard when he hooked up with KENDAL KEYS on a slip screen that Keys took 11 yards for the first score of the game and the onslaught was on from there. Lewis finished with 3 catches for 71 yards. Senior defensive back CAMERON LEE jumped a WR screen on the Dons’ next possession and took it 49 yards for a pick-six, but the defense didn’t stop there. The next time they stepped between the lines MARQUISE POWELL and Keys combined on a blocked punt that ERNEST SHIPLEY scooped up and scampered all the way down to Cathedral’s 3-yard line. That’s when running back DARRION HANCOCK stole the show and put his name all over the box score. After rushing for 233 yards against the Dons last year Hancock put it to them again as he railed off 4 touchdown runs from 3, 6, 12 and 22 yards respectively and finished with an even 100 yards on 12 rushes. “It feels good to win this way as a family ‘cause nobody fell off,” the senior said. “We are all together as one team, with one heartbeat and that’s how you have to win. Not as individuals, but as a team.” After Lewis hit KENE ANIGBOGU with his second TD pass of the night less than 5 minutes into the second half, the game had turned completely out of hand as the Highlanders held a 48-0 advantage on the scoreboard. That would be the last play for the veteran signal caller as he finished the game 11-of-19 with 193 yards through the air. “Obviously we expected it to be a lot closer because that is a great team over there,” Lewis admitted. “We still made a few mistakes that we got away with, but there’s a lot of work still to be done this season.” Not only is Lewis the QB of one the top teams around he is also an ace on the diamond as he helped pitch the Scotties to their first baseball championship in 23 years this last spring. For Cathedral, the 34-point setback was the second largest margin of defeat in school history. Sharing Samoan Pride. (Photo by Ken Stone, LaMesaPatch)

Soaring Eagles remain perfect By Dave Dickens © East County Sports.com NATIONAL CITY (9-17-11) — Situation in hand, progress on course. That’s how Granite Hills coach RANDY DEWITT viewed the first three weeks of the season which included Friday’s (Sept. 16) 28-14 victory at Sweetwater. That leaves his club sitting on a 3-0 record. “We need to win these Division I games, so we can be 5-0 to start (Grossmont South) league play,” DeWitt said. And that is exactly how the plan has continued to be executed. The start of the first quarter was not part of the plan, as special teams apparently didn’t get the DeWitt memo. After a quick first series, punter GABE KANE had his first attempted punt blocked deep in Eagle territory. The Red Devils would start at the Eagle 24 and score on their sixth play of the drive on a QB keeper by the speedy Saladin Nasser for 10 yards and an early Red Devils lead of 6-0 with 5:25 left in the first quarter, as the PAT failed. The visiting Eagles tried to establish a ground attack throughout the first half, which, however was not as successful as the Eagles would like. Two turnovers on fumbles could have clipped the Eagles’ hope of remaining undefeated. However the Eagles’ defense, led by defensive back DOMINIC BANAGA who picked off a Nasser pass in the end zone for a return of 41 yards, would not have it. The offensive game plan changed to a spread offense, led by gunslinger, DYLAN ANDREWS. Andrews would throw two 5-yard touchdown passes to NICK SPENCER, with Kane adding the PATs for an Eagles lead of 14-6 at halftime. The Eagles wouldn’t abandon the run, but continued to focus on the aerial attack as they added a 20-yard TD pass to tight end TAYLOR FLEURY and a 32-yard strike to KYLE NORRIS, leaving the score 28-6 with 10:31 left in regulation. The Red Devils were shut down for two and a half quarters by the stingy Eagles’ defense. However the Red Devils had one last breath and scored on a 10-yard pass from Nasser to Daniel Alcala for 6, and a two-point conversion, too little… too late. The Eagles would take a knee with :35 seconds left and to seal their well-deserved third win, 28-14. Eagles player of the game, QB Andrews, finished 13-for-16 for 152 yards and 4 touchdown passes. “The safeties for Sweetwater played great, we just played Eagle football and came out on top. I just threaded the needle,” Andrews said. Granite Hills’ MICHAEL MILLIEN finished with 18 rushes for 136 yards and totaled 166 all-purpose running yards. Fleury, a two-way standout, had 4 catches for 65 yards and a touchdown.

Cougars surge in Riverside County © East County Sports.com LAKE ELSINORE (9-17-11) — After suffering a frustrating season-opening loss to Cathedral Catholic, the Steele Canyon defense has taken charge. Fact is, the Cougars (2-1) have surrendered just 20 points in the last 10 quarters. That comes on the heels of allowing 27 markers in the opening two periods (some of that caused by a sputtering SC offense) at Cathedral. Of course, defense was expected to by Steele Canyon’s strong suit. Thus coach RON BOEHMKE wanted to focus on his offense after Friday’s (Sept. 16) non-league 24-10 victory over host Temescal Canyon (2-1). “We improved on offense tonight – we ran the ball well,” he said. LONNIE TUFF paced a Steele Canyon ground force that amassed 219 yards on 42 carries. The 5-foot-11, 176-pound junior raced for 111 yards on 18 carries. Sidekick ERNIE FLINT tacked on 68 yards and one TD on 14 rushes. Steele Canyon snapped a scoreless tie on a 2-yard scoring blast by JONATHAN DRIVICK in the second quarter. “That came at the end of a 99-yard drive,” Boehmke said. Other pluses for the Steele Canyon was the Cougars committed only four penalties for 45 yards and did not have a turnover. The Cougars broke a 10-10 deadlock in the final quarter on a 2-yard run by Flint and a 15-yard pass from T.J. CARLYON to Tuff. The Cougars passing game was conservative but effective as Carlyon clicked on 4 of 9 aerials for 54 yards. Two of those connections went to CHANCELLER JAMES for 30 yards. “I thought we played well in all phases of the game,” Boehmke concluded.

JV Football Week 3 Results Santana 35, Imperial 20 Morse 25, Valhalla 7 Serra 17, El Capitan 14 Cathedral Catholic 20, Helix 20 (tie) Point Loma 20, Mount Miguel 7 Monte Vista 30, The Bishop's 7 Grossmont 20, Bonita Vista 12 San Ysidro 34, ECVHS 32 Granite Hills 18, Sweetwater 12 Christian 48, Verbum Dei 6 Steele Canyon 28, Temescal Canyon 6 Frosh Football Week 3 Results El Capitan 31, Serra 2 Granite Hills 20, Sweetwater 20 (tie) Valhalla 27, Morse 14 Point Loma 48, Mount Miguel 0 Cathedral Catholic 32, Helix 6 Steele Canyon 10, Temescal Canyon 7 St. Augustine 30, Monte Vista 20 Bonita Vista 13, Grossmont 6 Santana 16 Imperial 7 Many records are incomplete; To Report Scores EMAIL US

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (9-17-11) — Grossmont Foothillers coach RON MURPHY wanted to spell it out to his team that all games are not won by luck.

“I told my guys the mojo’s gone,” he said. “In our last 20 games we’re 15-3-2, but there’s been a lot of luck involved. But I think tonight we showed that the magic powder is gone.

“We have to rely on ourselves to make the big play, not wait for some voodoo to happen where things go in our favor. It’s up to us from here on out, as far as I’m concerned.”

Grossmont blew a 14-point advantage in the final quarter and had to settle for a 28-28 non-league tie Friday night (Sept. 16) with visiting Bonita Vista.

After surrendering the game-tying touchdown with 50 seconds remaining, Grossmont’s JEFF BOWERS returned the ensuing kickoff 51 yards into Bonita Vista territory.

“That put us in field goal range for the win,” Murphy said. “But I felt we could move it closer. We picked up a few more yards on a couple of runs and it looked like we were set up for a 37-yard field goal.”

Grossmont (2-0-1) was then pushed back on a 5-yard penalty and a sweep that resulted in a 4-yard loss.

“Suddenly we were looking at a 46-yard field goal,” Murphy said, “Even though we knew our kicker (J.T. BARNES) had enough range to make it from there.”

Barnes’ left-footed kick, with a handful of seconds remaining, was long enough but sailed wide of the mark.

“He got into it pretty good and it was easily long enough,” Murphy noted. “But like I said, the mojo’s changed.”

Murphy’s view of the game was bittersweet.

“The good news is we didn’t lose,” he said. “The bad news is we tied, which is disappointing.”

No doubt the standout in the Grossmont performance was middle linebacker-turned-running back RYAN DAVIS-TUCKER, who rushed for 149 yards and 2 touchdowns on 28 carries for the Foothillers.

Grossmont's Ryan Davis-Tucker breaks through this Bonita Vista tackle, racing for a touchdown. (Photo by Chris Stone, LaMesaPatch)

“He’s just a pounder,” said Murphy. “He’s clearly one of our best defensive players and probably our No. 5 running back, but he played both ways and gave us what we needed. He’s a complete player – the kind of guy you never have enough of on your roster.”

Two of Bonita Vista’s touchdowns scored on foul-ups by the Foothillers.

“They turned a fumble into a scoop-and-run for a touchdown and blocked a punt to create a short field. They are definitely opportunistic,” Murphy observed of the Barons.

Despite what Murphy said, Grossmont had a little bit of magic left in them. LAWSON MEDEIROS turned a double pass into a game-tying touchdown with a 47-yard scoring strike to TRENT GALKOSKI that tied the game 14-14.

Grossmont sophomore quarterback ANTHONY LAWRENCE clicked on 18 of 25 passes for 188 yards. Six of those connections went to RYAN GREEN for 62 yards and one touchdown. Green also caught 5 passes for 32 yards.

Mount Miguel lineman Malcolm Jackson (66) leads the way for Matadors running back Derrick Dunn in an easy 41-7 pasting of Point Loma. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

After a scoreless first quarter the Matadors erupted for 20 points in the second period.

“Our defense was absolutely phenomenal,” said Mount Miguel coach TOM KARLO of the No. 6 ranked Matadors (3-0).

Mount Miguel forced six turnovers and limited the Pointers (2-1) to two first downs in the opening half.

This was an unofficial Senior Night for the Matadors as end CORY LITTLETON recorded 3 sacks and linebacker TREVION WILSON made 3 tackles for losses, recorded one sack and rang up 13 total tackles. HENRY INGRAM intercepted a pass and returned it 47 yards for a touchdown. Littleton had nine stops, while RAUL FUENTES chipped in with 8.

“This was our best defensive effort in our first three games, hands down,” said Karlo.

Another visual highlight for the Matadors was Washington-bound defensive tackle MALCOLM JACKSON (6-foot-3, 258 pounds) picking up a Point Loma fumble and rambling 29 yards downfield.

“That was something to see, that big old guy carrying defenders on his back,” Karlo laughed. “He didn’t score but he did set up a touchdown for us on that play.”

Running back DERRICK DUNN led the Matadors’ offensive charge with two touchdowns. He chalked up 134 yards on 24 carries and his lone pass reception was a 32-yard TD pass from quarterback ERNEST WILLIAMS (7-for-15, 126 yards, 2 TDs). Williams also ran for 18 yards and a TD on five carries.

“We’re trying to score six times per game,” Karlo said. “That’s our goal and offensively what we expect. By the time our defense came on the field in the third quarter it was 27-0.”

Karlo is proud of his one-of-a-kind, no-huddle offense.

“It’s the wave of the future,” he said. “We want to do things unique. We want people to know that Mount Miguel provides a lot of players numerous touches – everybody gets a share here.

“How can you expect your defense to prepare to stop us in four days’ practice?”

Not that Karlo wants teams to figure out how to do so.

MONAY SWAFFORD picked off his second pass of the season and NAJEE NICHOLS intercepted his first pass of the year. DANIEL MORALES forced a fumble and recovered a fumble.

SERRA 37, EL CAPITAN 30 – This was a night of frustration for the El Capitan Vaqueros.

After building an apparent comfortable 22-3 halftime lead, the host Vaqueros fell on their face in the second half. Even so, El Capitan (0-3) had a chance to pull out a victory on the final play of the game.

With the game on the line and the clock against him, quarterback JAKE ALVERNAZ dropped back to pass on a 4th-and-12 with 1.1 seconds remaining in Friday’s (Sept. 16) non-league game against visiting Serra. He fired a pass to AUSTIN SCHUETZLE, who took an inside screen and bolted toward the left corner of the endzone.

Schuetzle, who earlier had caught a 30-yard touchdown pass from Alvernaz, hauled in the fateful screen but was knocked out of bounds at the 1-yard line by a trio of Serra defenders as time expired.

El Capitan coach RON BURNER made it clear that if the Vaqueros had scored on that play he would have gone for the 2-point conversion and the victory.

“If we had scored a TD on that last play, we already had a 2-point conversion play in mind,” he said. “We were going to go for the win and run the ball up the gut.”

Reliable JOSH MURPHY scored on touchdown passes of 58 and 72 yards from Alvernaz in the first half as the Vaqueros took what appeared to be a commanding lead.

Penalties plagued both teams. Serra was handicapped by 18 penalties for 139 yards, while El Capitan was flagged 6 times for 78 yards.

“I’ve never had a crew (of officials) call this many penalties, especially in key situations,” Burner said. “The thing that really hurt is they made the calls in the most crucial situations.”

Each team had a touchdown called back by the whistle-happy officials.

“But it never should have come down to that,” Burner said. “Heck, we should be 3-0 right now but we keep doing things to hurt ourselves.”

Murphy finished with 4 catches for 156 yards. GRANT KIRBY caught 8 passes for 85 yards and Schuetzle caught 6 aerials for 68 yards.

Alvernaz completed 21 of 31 passes for 326 yards and 3 scores. He also rushed for 47 yards on 10 carries.

El Capitan’s leading rusher was AUSTIN WATSON, who piled up 55 yards on 9 carries and one score.

Valhalla defensive lineman Tone De'Shawn (90) not only sacks the Morse quarterback, he also forced the ball loose with his jarring smackdown. (Photo by Don De Mars)

VALHALLA 52, MORSE 26 – Only one point separates the Valhalla Norsemen from an undefeated season after three games, which includes Friday’s (Sept. 16) blowout of Morse in Rancho San Diego. It’s hard to believe that the Norsemen could play any better than they did in their conquest of the visiting Tigers, who came to town 2-0.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, Valhalla senior quarterback FRANK FOSTER didn’t want to accommodate them. Foster completed 16 of 20 passes for 199 yards and 2 touchdowns, and ran for another 41 yards and 2 more scores – all in the first half – as the Norsemen built a 52-12 lead after three quarters. The fourth quarter was played with a running clock, which was stopped a lot more than one would expect in a situation like that.

“I asked the players to look at it this way,” said Norsemen coach CHARLES BUSSEY. “I asked them to forget the last play and focus on the next play. I emphasized that’s how games are won, and that’s what we did. I thought we did an excellent job of running the ball.”

JESUS VALERO and De’SHAWN TONE helped short circuit Morse’s first possession of the night. The Tigers gambled on fourth down, but were thwarted by CHRIS FARRELL, SPENCER HAVIRD and ANTHONY BUZZELL, who gang-tackled the runner for a loss, giving possession to Valhalla.

Foster and the Valhalla offense methodically moved the ball down the field on a 14-play drive that ended successfully when Foster scored on a 9-yard run up the middle. After AMMON DUNN supplied the PAT (5-5 for the game), the Norsemen led 7-0, with 2:55 remaining in the first quarter.

Valhalla quickly got the ball back after its defense forced Morse to punt after just three plays. ROBERT RUIZ gave the Norsemen good field position at its 40-yard line with a 10-yard punt return. Foster quickly hooked up with wide receiver WARREN PRESTON on a 21-yard pass-catch to the Morse 39-yard line.

Foster then found JEVON HASTEN open at the Morse 30-yard line as the initial stanza ended. Two plays into the second quarter, Foster threw a center screen pass to Ruiz, who evaded several tacklers and scored a 25-yard touchdown, upping the Norsemen’s lead to 14-0 only 21 seconds into the second quarter.

Morse responded quickly when quarterback Jamal Anderson threw a 66-yard touchdown pass to Christian Burger. The kick failed, and Valhalla led 14-6, with 9:54 left before halftime.

No problem for Valhalla. KEVIN MILLS used his speed on the ensuing kickoff to return it 36 yards to the Tigers’ 39-yard line. The Norsemen’s drive seemed to stall out at the Morse 23-yard line when Foster barely missed a touchdown when, on third down, he slightly overthrew NICK WILLAS in the end zone. Undaunted, on 4th and 9, Foster wound up and threw a strike to Hasten in the back of the end zone where Hasten made a leaping catch over the outstretched defender, giving Valhalla a 21-6 lead at the 7:29 mark of the second period.

Disaster struck Morse on its next possession. Valhalla linebacker Farrell recovered a fumble on the Tigers’ 39-yard line, giving the Norsemen another shot to widen the scoring gap. And that’s just what they did when Dunn was accurate on a 25-yard field goal attempt, making it 24-6 with 4:17 left to play before intermission.

Undeterred, the Tigers tried to claw their way back into the game and managed to score another touchdown, however the run failed on the conversion attempt.

With only 22 seconds left in the half, Foster appeared to be sacked for the first time in the game, but managed to break free of the tackler and scampered 8 yards into the endzone. With 12 seconds left on the clock, Valhalla led 31-12.

In the third quarter, Valhalla turned the game into a blowout. Running back KYLE QUARLES scored on a 1-yard run, Ruiz scored his second TD of the game when he hauled in a 22-yard pass from back-up quarterback RAMSEY ROMANO, and Romano scored on a 2-yard run with 17 seconds left in the third quarter, with Valhalla leading 52-12.

Morse scored two touchdowns in the 4th quarter, but it was too little, too late as the Norsemen won 52-26 and improved to 2-1.

Valhalla’s offensive line (HARRY ALLEN, ANDREW DAOUD, COLE ANDERSON, MIKE KASTAN, SAMSON MEYER and RYAN KRUM) did a tremendous job protecting Foster and opening running lanes; it was the first time in Foster’s varsity career that he wasn’t sacked at least once.

JIHAD ELDER led the Valhalla running game with 93 yards in 11 carries, as the Norsemen gained 187 yards on the ground, giving them 402 yards of total offense for the evening.

SANTANA 42, IMPERIAL 26 – There’s something about the desert aura that Imperial High presents that bothers the Santana Sultans. Each of their last three meetings have ended in mad scrambles.

East County passing leader KYLE GASNER of Santana completed 11 of 19 passes for 104 yards and one touchdown. But the Sultans’ razzle-dazzle passing game Friday night (Sept. 16) against the visiting Tigers did not stop there.

LANDON LOZOYA, no doubt the most versatile player in East County , completed 3 of 4 passes for 54 yards and a touchdown. He also caught 4 passes for 41 yards and returned two kickoffs for 81 yards.

Not to be overlooked was a halfback pass by TYLER WEISS that resulted in a 26-yard touchdown pass to JEFF PETERSON that proved to be the victory-clinching tally during a 21-point, third quarter flurry by the Sultans.

Santana (3-0) scored first in the final period on a 1-yard run by SPENCER LOVE to make it 35-20 with 9:07 remaining. The Sultans’ defense put it away from there although the total yardage counts between the two teams were very similar.

Santana’s offense generated 355 total yards, while Imperial mustered 330.

Love led Santana’s rushers with 76 yards and 2 touchdowns on 16 carries. Weiss chipped in 37 yards rushing as Santana total 171 yards on the ground.

Peterson finished with two touchdown passes for 37 yards.

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 33, JULIAN 0 – The Knights posted their first-ever home field shutout Friday (Sept. 16) after manhandling the Julian Eagles at Junior Seau Field. In rolling up 427 yards in total offense, Foothills Christian (3-0) scored on its first three possessions to mount a 20-0 advantage.

"It was a great defensive performance, obviously, with 22 different players contributing," said head coach THOM LUBIC. "There wasn't a single person you could point towards, they were all difference makers in controlling the line."

The defense did not allow any pass completions, continually posting 3-and-outs to defeat Julian for the fourth straight year. The Knights also posted the shutout thanks to four quarterback sacks despite no turnovers by Julian.

Meanwhile, the offense put away the victory early with three quick touchdowns.

Tailback SPENCER GEORGE, set up most of the scores with a 202-yard rushing performance, raising his East County leading total to 495. He opened the scoring with a 33-yard gallop.

Hard-running fullback LEVI MICHUAD also stormed for 128 yards and four touchdowns on a dozen carries. He maintained an average of better than 10 yards per carry, while George averaged 14.4 carries per sortie.

"They're our 1-2 punch running the ball," added Lubic.

The only other shutout victories in Foothills history – both on the road – came over a 13-day span during the 2009 season, defeating Borrego Springs (48-0) and San Diego Jewish Academy (21-0).

Defensively Foothills Christian gave up less than 100 total yards while forcing five punts.

— By Nick Pellegrino

THE BISHOP’S 50, MONTE VISTA 14 – If Friday’s (Sept. 16) game against defending State Bowl Game Division V champion The Bishop’s School was a tackling drill, the Monte Vista Monarchs would have received a failing grade.

So says Monte Vista head coach PAGE CULVER.

“We couldn’t tackle anybody,” he said. “I mean we would hit their guys and then bounce off. We did not wrap up and make the tackle.

“But give Bishop’s credit, they did just about everything right.”

JAMES SYKES handled the bulk of the scoring for the Monarchs (1-2), who were tied 7-7 in the 1st quarter after Sykes burst 60 yards for a touchdown.

Sykes would score again on a 12-yard pass from GORDY JUAREZ leaving Monte Vista down only 28-14 at halftime.

ANTHONY SUAREZ executed both PAT kicks.

“James had a solid offensive game,” Culver said. “He rushed for more than 100 yards. But we have to do a better job on defense.”

Make that 200 rushing yards for Sykes, officially. For the night he logged 260 all-purpose yards.

ERIC OWENS added 55 yards on seven sorties for Monte Vista.

SAN YSIDRO 23, EL CAJON VALLEY 17 – Trailing only 3-0 at the halftime break in Friday’s (Sept. 16) non-league battle against visiting San Ysidro, the El Cajon Valley Braves grabbed a 7-3 edge in the third period on a 45-yard run by VIRNEL MOON and a PAT kick by ERVING VORBON.

The ensuing 20 points belonged to the Cougars (1-2), however, who built a 23-7 cushion.

But the Braves refused to fold.

ANTOINE WHITE scored on a 2-yard run and Vorbon booted a field goal in the final quarter to shave the Cougars’ advantage to but a touchdown.

Despite the belated comeback El Cajon Valley head coach NORMAN WHITEHEAD was anything but pleased.

“We did not play up to our ability,” the coach said. “We were flat. There was no enthusiasm at all. This was our first home game and we even had new uniforms. We could have tackled better, and the intercepted pass killed us. In general, turnovers killed us.”

On the bright side, Whitehead did have kind words for Moon.

“Moon had a good game,” he said.

LUIS TIZNADO led the Braves with 9 tackles. Moon had 7 tackles. HECTOR MALDONADO and JESSE ALVAREZ each notched a sack.

White rushed for 49 yards.

Helix defensive lineman Arthur Shepard (58) not only sacks Cathedral Catholic quarterback Garrett Bogart, he will also force a fumble in the Scotties' 48-14 win. (Photo by Bob Davis)

THE FEARLESS FORECASTER — Predictions
Santana, like Lozoya, is 'going with the wind'
Key Division IV game with Imperial looms

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (9-15-11) — This may be perhaps Santana’s finest team in a decade or so.

It is a veteran offensive group led by quarterback KYLE GASNER — East County’s leading passer (315.5 ypg, 5 TDs) — and receiver deluxe LANDON LOZOYA (14 catches, 381 yards, 3 TDs).

“This is a Division IV game, so that makes it that much more important,” Santana coach DAVE GROSS said. “If we play hard, we will be OK.”

Lozoya is East County’s leader in all-purpose running, amassing 480 yards in two games.

“He is an amazing athlete,” Gross said. “He can play both sides of the ball, return all the kicks”

Also a well-polished basketball player, the 6-foot-3, 170-pound Lozoya is being recruited by Northern Arizona University.

“Landon can go DI if he wants to,” Gross said. “Right now he’s just going with the wind.”

The Sultans (2-0) have lost only once to the Imperial Valley’s Tigers in five previous meetings. They were clawed around last year, tying 14-14 during the season and then falling in the 1st round of the playoffs, 18-7.

“In my mind there is some payback involved for last year,” admitted Gross. “But by the same token since we have played so many times lately there is no element of surprise.”

Look for the Sultans to rebound against upstart Imperial... Santana 35-19.

That hardly takes the glitter off.

Digging furtherm CalHiSports.com has Helix ranked No. 2 and Cathedral No. 3 in the Division II State Bowl Game ratings. (See chart below the previews.)

Not by choice, but the Highlanders have become a pass-first, run-second team. That’s been evident in both a 21-14 loss to No. 1 Eastlake and a 42-7 romp over Vista.

Senior quarterback BRANDON LEWIS is the focal point of the Helix offense, having completed better than 64 percent of 65 passes for 605 yards and 5 touchdowns.

“Teams have been loading up the box against us to stop the run,” Helix coach TROY STARR said. “ Vista was relentless in committing to stop the run. When teams do that you have to focus on passing.”

Lewis, East County Sports' Athlete of the Week, completed 27 of 35 aerials for 341 yards and 3 TDs in the rout at Vista. CAMERON LEE, TYERE HUNTER and KENDAL KEYS combined for 20 catches for 220 yards and a pair of scores against Vista.

“Our goal is always to be a 50-50 team,” Starr said, “but when teams sell out to stop the run and dare you to pass, what’re you gonna do?”

Helix has split two previous meetings against Cathedral. The rubber match goes to... Helix 24-14.

POINT LOMA (2-0) at No. 6 MOUNT MIGUEL (2-0) – This will mark the first time that these teams will face off in other than a playoff format when the Pointers visit Mount Miguel Friday night (Sept. 16).

That hardly takes away from the intensity these clubs are sure to generate.

“I don’t care what the rankings say, I believe Point Loma is a Top 10 team,” said Matadors coach TOM KARLO.

The Pointers raced past Orange Glen (27-7) and Lincoln (42-21), while the Matadors flattened Fallbrook (35-11) and nipped Valhalla (28-27).

“When I first put together our schedule I thought we were in Division III,” Karlo said. “But I found out in June that we are in Division IV, and now as it stands we play only one Division IV team (Santana).”

Not that Karlo is dismissing the schedule he has.

“This is a measuring stick game for our program,” he said. “Point Loma is a quality program, used to going to Qualcomm Stadium a lot. I think they’ve won at least nine games in seven of the last eight years.”

Mount Miguel, which has suffered some key injuries in the early going, has frustrated its first two foes with its no-huddle offense.

“Counting two kneel downs, we had 79 plays against Valhalla,” Karlo noted. “That’s a lot of plays for a high school team. It’s really taxing when a team has players going both ways, which most teams do.”

These teams have met five times in the past – all of which have come in the playoffs. Point Loma eliminated Mount Miguel in 1995, 2009 and 2010... Mount Miguel 28-21.

BONITA VISTA (0-2) at GROSSMONT (2-0) — Even coach RON MURPHY is amazed by how well the Foothillers have played while overcoming a rash of injuries in the first two weeks of the season.

“We are really banged up,” said the Foothillers’ fourth-year head coach.

Talk about smoke and mirrors... Grossmont has clipped Ramona 24-20 and University City 21-14. However, Murphy is not delusional by Bonita Vista’s 0-2 record.

“We have an awful lot of key players limping around here,” he said. “We’re never sure who is going to be available until just before game time – that’s how tentative things are around here right now.”

Probably the most positive note for Grossmont so far has been the play of sophomore quarterback ANTHONY LAWRENCE.

“During the summer we thought he was going to be our starting JV quarterback,” Murphy said.

Due to various circumstances Lawrence has wound up as varsity QB-1.

He has completed better than 58 percent of 60 passes for 394 yards and 5 touchdowns.

“Anthony is pretty mature for his age – doesn’t get rattled, doesn’t panic,” Murphy noted. “One problem that we have to cure is he wants to make a big play on every snap.”

Grossmont has knocked Bonita Vista out of the playoffs in their only two previous meetings against the Barons. Thus payback is in order... Grossmont 27-13.

STEELE CANYON (1-1) at TEMESCAL CANYON (2-0) – The Cougars will hit the road for Lake Elsinore Friday night (Sept. 16) to take on the undefeated Titans of Temescal Canyon. This game came to be when Steele Canyon was unable to find a local opponent to fill this play date.

“We are not a marquee name so it’s not easy for us to find games out of town,” said Cougars coach RON BOEHMKE. “I feel fortunate that we got this game. It will be a good experience for our guys.”

After a shoddy opening night performance resulting in a 27-7 loss to Cathedral Catholic, the Cougars straightened out the kinks in their armor and bowled over Bonita Vista 34-10 last week.

“ Temescal Canyon looks a lot like Bonita Vista in that they are a power-running team,” Boehmke said. “They don’t throw the ball much but they are consistent.”

Steele Canyon is developing a consistent running attack of its own with LONNIE TUFF and ERNIE FLINT carrying the load.

Since this is the first meeting between the two it’s difficult to figure out the match-up. As the adage goes, it’s offense for show; defense for dough. Temescal Canyon has outscored its first two opponents 90-65, with running back Michael Shepherd (61 carries, 468 yds, 7 TDs) leading the way.

The Cougars’ defense has allowed only 10 points in the last six quarters, so the nod goes to... Steele Canyon 26-20.

GRANITE HILLS (2-0) at SWEETWATER (1-1) – In addition to the Eagles’ Grossmont Hills League games, Granite Hills coach RANDY DeWITT circled four Division I encounters on his schedule that he considers pivotal in terms of the San Diego CIF playoffs.

When the Eagles travel south to Sweetwater on Friday (Sept. 16) they will face the D-I Red Devils.

“This is our second Division I opponent,” DeWitt said, “And we look at this as a must-win game.”

He could draw some comparisons considering both teams have faced D-I Chula Vista in the first two weeks of the season. The Eagles tipped the Spartans 22-21 in the opener, and Sweetwater lost 35-28 last week.

The key to beating Sweetwater is containing Sweetwater quarterback Saladin Nasser.

“He’s a major weapon,” DeWitt said of Nasser. “The thought of him running the ball makes him scary.”

Senior quarterback DYLAN ANDREWS returns to the Granite Hills lineup after missing last week’s victory over El Capitan due to injury.

“It will be great to have Dylan back but our No. 1 goal is to run the football,” DeWitt said. “We have six backs that I trust in our system.”

These teams have met seven times in the past. The Eagles captured the last five meetings, including 34-0 last year... Granite Hills 30-14.

MORSE (2-0) at VALHALLA (1-1) – This one could be a scoring fest. The visiting Morse Tigers, who will invade Valhalla for the first time ever on Friday (Sept. 16), are coming off victories over El Centro Southwest (52-0) and Ramona (27-17).

The Norsemen boat-raced Mission Bay 42-7 in the opener but failed miserably on special teams in last week’s 28-27 loss to Mount Miguel.

“You have to respect (Morse) because they’re a 2-0 team,” said Valhalla first-year head coach CHARLES BUSSEY of the Tigers. “You have to stop their running back and contain their quarterback because they have big play potential.”

Speaking of big plays, Valhalla has perhaps the fastest player in the league in slotback KEVIN MILLS. The junior speedster scored on three long plays, including a 93-yard pass from quarterback FRANK FOSTER in the loss to Mount Miguel.

Arguably the Norsemen have played a tougher schedule, so the nod goes to... Valhalla 35-27.

THE BISHOP’S (2-0) at MONTE VISTA (1-1) – The Monarchs are looking for an upset of last year’s SoCal Div. V state champions in Friday’s (Sept. 16) first-ever meeting between these schools in Spring Valley.

After squeezing out a 12-7 nod over Serra on opening night, the Monarchs got pancaked by Del Norte 36-7.

Although the Monarchs have scored only three touchdowns, they feature a solid running tandem of JAMES SYKES and ERIC OWENS.

Things don’t figure to get a whole lot easier against the Knights, who were undefeated a year ago and have won 16 straight... The Bishop’s 28-7.

SERRA (0-2) at EL CAPITAN (0-2) – It’s been rough sledding for these two teams, which have failed to win a game between them heading into Friday’s (Sept. 16) non-league skirmish.

COLE ABRAMS, the leading rusher among Grossmont Valley League teams (15 ypg) and do-it-all JOSH MURPHY are El Capitan’s primary weapons. Quarterback JAKE ALVERNAZ is ready for a breakout game.

“Murphy is unbelievable,” said Vaqueros coach RON BURNER. “He can do so many things for us.”

Nevada, Idaho and CalPoly-SLO have already taken a liking to Murphy, who sports a 3.5 gpa.

In three previous meetings El Capitan has steamrollered the Conquistadors 139-35. It won’t be that lopsided this time, but the Vaqueros should make it 4-0 over the Q-Dawgs... El Capitan 27-21.

SAN YSIDRO (0-2) at EL CAJON VALLEY (0-2) – Two more hungry teams in search of a victory tee it up in Friday’s (Sept. 16) non-league meeting on the Braves’ turf.

The visiting Cougars feature a balanced attack directed by QB Cristian Garcia (16-32, 242 yards, 3 TDs).

It will be “Throw Back Jersey” night for the Braves.

“Yeah, we are going to bring back the Powder Blue jerseys, the ones like the old Houston Oilers wore,” said El Cajon Valley coach NORMAN WHITEHEAD.

“I think our kids realize we are getting better. I think we will show more progress this week as well.”

The Mustangs slipped past the Braves 26-20 last year to lead the youthful series 2-1. This one is a tossup but the nod goes to... El Cajon Valley 22-20.

JULIAN (1-1) vs. FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN (2-0), at Seau Field – East County rushing and scoring leader SPENCER GEORGE (146.5 ypg, 26 points) carries the torch for the defensive-minded Knights against Julian in Friday’s (Sept. 16) non-league scrap.

Julian has surrendered 94 points in its first two games and that bodes well for Foothills Christian. The Eagles are a passing team.

“It will come down to big plays,” Foothills coach THOM LUBIC said. “We want to control the ball so as to keep their offense off the field. They can’t break any long ones if they are on the sidelines.

George anchors the Knights’ ball-control offense. Foothills also play stingy defense... Foothills Christian 28-14.

CHRISTIAN (1-1) at VERBUM DEI (2-0), at L.A. Southwest College – “They have huge linemen,” was the first observation Christian High offensive coordinator DAVID BEEZER made after viewing the Eagles first two game DVDs.

Verbum Dei has posted back-to-back lopsided victories over Los Angeles-Amino South 41-0 and Santa Ana Valley 49-6.

Christian edged Verbum Dei 26-14 a year ago. Looking ahead to Saturday’s (Sept. 17) meeting, one can only wonder, is a repeat performance in the offing?

“They look pretty good on tape, but I think our discipline and scheme will get us a win,” Beezer said. “I don’t think they see a passing offense like ours very often.” UPSET SPECIAL... Christian 33-26.