By Kevin Askeland
MaxPreps.com
Following is the first in a series of stories previewing the upcoming football season in California. Today's previews include the leagues that play in the Northern Section. Tomorrow - Sac Joaquin Section.
SAC-JOAQUIN SECTION
Capital Athletic League
The Del Campo Cougars (11-2, 5-0) look to be the favorite again this year in the Capital Athletic League after going undefeated during the 2006 and 2005 campaigns and winning the Division 3 title last year over Pioneer. Carey Johnson, the leading rusher in the CAL last year, returns for his senior season after rushing for 1,383 yards as a junior. He's joined in the backfield by the versatile Tony Gobern. Casa Roble (10-2, 4-1), made substantial improvement last year, but return few starters from a team that finished second to the Cougars. El Camino (6-5, 3-2) should be solid with one of the top rushers in the league, Devon Duncan (1,195 yards) returning. Also look for improvement from Rio Americano, which went from 1-9 in 2005 to 5-5 last year.
Team to Beat: Del Campo Cougars
Top MVP Candidate: Carey Johnson, Del Campo
Players to Watch: Carey Johnson, Del Campo, RB, All-League; 190 carries, 1,383 yards, 18 TDs; Tony Gobern, Del Campo, RB, All-League; Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 96 carries, 846 yards, 13 TDs; Codi Henderson, Del Campo, C, All-League; Devon Duncan, El Camino, RB, All-League, 182 carries, 1,195 yards, 13 TDs; Will Lew, El Camino, C, All-League; Ryan Montgomery, El Camino, LB, All-League, 53 tackles; Zach Fairchild, Casa Roble, RB, 123 carries, 835 yards; Terrence Litton, Bella Vista, All-League, 7 sacks; Michael Willis, Rio Americano, LB, All-League, 99 tackles, 5 sacks; Alfred Kikau, Rio Americano, WR, All-League, 13 catches, 179 yards, 80 tackles; Brent Houser, Mira Loma, DB, 76 tackles; Mike Keegan, Mira Loma, RB, 135 carries, 634 yards; Matt Beam, Rio Americano, QB, 74-179, 1,024 yards, 15 TD.
Capital Valley League
There will likely be another battle for supremacy in the Capital Valley League between Foothill (6-6, 4-1) and Rio Linda (7-5, 4-1) this year. The two teams tied for first place last year and have the top two weapons in the league. Foothill's CJ Woodbury ran for 1,380 yards and 22 TDs last year and was the league MVP. Rio Linda counters with Hiram Johnson transfer Houston Roots, who ran for 1,171 yards in 2006. River City (6-4, 3-2) will continue to be competitive with the running back tandem of Gregory Turner and Marcus Santos.
Team to Beat: Foothill Mustangs
Top MVP Candidate: C.J. Woodbury, Foothill
Players to Watch: CJ Woodbury, Foothill, RB, All-League, league MVP, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 158 carries, 1,380 yards, 22 TDs; Kevyn Lewis, Foothill, WR, All-League, 3 int; James Burrell, Dixon, DL, All-League, 8 sacks; Gregory Turner, River City, RB, All-League; 126 carries, 515 yards; Marcus Santos, River City, LB, Jr, All-League, 141 carries, 565 yards, 58 tackles; Nick Young, Foothill, LB, 94 tackles; Darrell Cole, Foothill, DE, 4 sacks; A.J. Romine, Rio Linda, RB, Jr., 110 carries, 491 yards; Bryan Folsom, Rio Linda, K., Jr., 44 points, 5 FG; Bradly McCarty, West Campus, QB, 94-170, 1,128 yards, 10 TDs; Justin Serra, West Campus, WR, 31 catches, 294 yards; Jack Green, Dixon, WR, 13 catches, 175 yards; Marty Delgado, Center, RB, 49 carries, 358 yards; Houston Roots, Rio Linda, 164 carries, 1,171 yards, 9 TDs.
Central California Conference
Although the Merced Bears (12-2, 6-0) lost a close, exciting 37-36 battle with Vacaville in the Sac-Joaquin Section Division 1 championship last year, they could find themselves back in the championship game in 2007. The Bears have the league's top returning player in linebacker James Sulhoff, but they will have to find a replacement for quarterback Logan Todd, who threw for 2,529 yards last year. Golden Valley (8-3, 5-1) finds itself in the same boat as the Bears. The Cougars must replace QB Chris Randle (2,175 yards), but they have several solid players in place, including Caleb Fiedor, Nathan Saelong and Jeremy Jacobo. Pitman (6-3, 4-2) just missed the playoffs last year, and should be in the thick of things again with LB Stephan Palacio leading the CCC's stingiest defense (a league low 135 points against in 2006).
Team to Beat: Merced Bears
Top MVP Candidate: James Sulhoff, Merced
Players to Watch: Tanner Mendoza, Turlock, OL, All-League; James Sulhoff, Merced, LB, All-League, Merced Sun-Star all-area team, Modesto Bee all-area first team, 151 tackles; Stephan Palacio, Pitman, LB, All-League; Bryce Dibble, Atwater, DB, All-League; Ronald Carter, Buhach Colony, OL, 2nd team all-league, Merced Sun-Star all-area team; Aaron Brown, Pitman, RB 2nd team all-league; Michael Flores, Turlock, RB, 2nd team all-league; Trevor Staats, Atwater, RB, 2nd team all-league; Caleb Fiedor, Golden Valley, WR, 2nd team all-league, 39 catches, 596 yards, 5 TDs; Jarrett Sparks, Merced, TE, 2nd team all-league, Modesto Bee all-area 2nd team, 42 catches, 862 yards, 8 TDs; Brett Tyler, Turlock, DL, 2nd team all-league; Nathan Saelong, Golden Valley, DL, 2nd team all-league; Joe Medeiros, Buhach Colony, LB, 2nd team all-league, Merced Sun-Star all-area team, 135 tackles; Jeremy Jacobo, Golden Valley, DB, 2nd team all-league, 50 tackles; Jarmichael Turner, Merced, DB, 2nd team all-league, Merced Sun-Star all-area team; Jared Serpa, Turlock, DB, 2nd team all-league, 5 int; Kenneth Cooper, Merced, TE, Jr., Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomores, 10 catches, 94 yards, 3 TDs; Darrion Gray, Merced, RB, 71 carries, 499 yards; Brandon Garcia, Merced, QB, 28-47, 444 yards, 3 TDs; Lou Saeturn, Merced, DL, 102 tackles, 6 sacks; Fabian Miramontes, Golden Valley, K, 55 points, 5 FG; Ray Rivas, Golden Valley, LB, Jr., 54 tackles; Brian Wine, Buhach Colony, QB, 42-85, 580 yards; Derek Abril, Buhach Colony, RB, 111 carries, 772 yards, 5 TD; Casey Cotta, Los Banos, RB, 105 carries, 598 yards, 7 TDs.
Delta River League
With Sheldon (9-3, 5-0) losing nearly every major contributor from last year's league championship team to graduation, Jesuit (8-3, 4-1) and Folsom (6-5, 3-2) should be primed to challenge for the crown in 2007. The Marauders have a number of offensive weapons, including multi-talented Isaiah Frey in the backfield with Jordan Haynes, who is a tackling machine on defense (132 tackles). Meanwhile Andrew Benjamin will lead Jesuit on the offensive and defensive lines. Folsom relies on the arm of Cary Grossart, one of the top signal callers in the state. Related to former Oakland Raider QB Kyle Grossart, Cary threw for 2,448 yards and rushed for 794 last year while winning league MVP honors. He's joined by one of the leading tacklers in the Sac-Joaquin Section in Ryan Rau (155 tackles). Sheldon likely won't slip too far, but will rely on mostly underclassmen to carry the load. Pleasant Grove (5-5, 1-4), on the other hand, has all 22 starters back from last year's team and will be playing its first season with seniors. Defensive lineman Armond Armstead wasn't an all-league pick last year, but he is rapidly rising up the recruiting charts and will lead the Pleasant Grove defense.
Team to Beat: Jesuit Marauders
Top MVP Candidate: Cary Grossart, Folsom
Players to Watch: Andrew Benjamin, Jesuit, OL, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 80 tackles; Justin Parker, Jesuit, TE, All-League, 18 catches, 343 yards, 7 TDs; Jordan Haynes, Jesuit, RB, All-League, 79 carries, 470 yards, 132 tackles; Isaiah Frey, Jesuit, RB, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro 2nd team, 100 carries, 581 yards, 8 TDs, 24 catches, 346 yards, 3 TDs, 7 int; Cary Grossart, Folsom, QB, All-League, league offensive MVP, Sac Bee All-Metro, Honorable Mention, All-Sac Joaquin Section Honorable Mention, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 2nd team. 181-293, 2,448 yards, 19 TDs, 168 carries, 794 yards, 6 TDs; Joe Brinkman, Folsom, WR, All-League, 35 catches, 559 yards, 5 TDs; Ryan Rau, Folsom, LB, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 155 tackles; Brandon Coker, Pleasant Grove, OL, All-League, 52 tackles; Chris Jungkeit, Pleasant Grove, RB, All-League, 245 carries, 1,144 yards, 9 TDs; Darren Powe-Reed, Pleasant Grove, LB, All-League, 80 tackles; Armond Armstead, Pleasant Grove, DL, 49 tackles; Marquis Taylor, Florin, T, All-League, 4.5 sacks; Keini Wilson, Monterey Trail, OL, All-League; Louis Canahuati, Monterey Trail, OL, All-League; Dominic Carmazzi, Jesuit, QB, 89-145, 1,383 yards, 12 TDs; Darrell Gordon, Florin, RB, 98 carries, 764 yards, 7 TDs; Steven Jaeger, Florin, DE, 95 tackles; Matt Moa, Florin, LB, 91 tackles; Taylor Hebert, Pleasant Grove, QB, 47-102, 672 yards, 5 TDs; Kenny Umeh, Pleasant Grove, WR, 18 catches, 298 yards; Deonte' Williams, Pleasant Grove, RB, 91 carries, 518 yards (at Valley).
Delta Valley League
Expect another close race between the top four teams in the Delta Valley, which is one of the more competitive leagues in the Sac Joaquin Section. The Elk Grove Thundering Herd (11-2, 4-1) tied Franklin of Elk Grove (8-3, 4-1) for the title last year, but loom as the favorites this year thanks to the return of All-Metro picks Kevin Frank at quarterback and Justin Meehan at linebacker. Franklin has a few more losses due to graduation, which could open the door for Nevada Union (7-4, 3-2) and Laguna Creek (7-3, 3-2) to battle Elk Grove for the top spot.
Team to Beat: Elk Grove Thundering Herd
Top MVP Candidate: Justin Meehan, Elk Grove
Players to Watch: Justin Meehan, Elk Grove, LB, All-League, league defensive MVP, Sac Bee All-Metro 2nd team, All-Sac Joaquin Section 1st team, 72 tackles, 7 sacks, 3 int; Kevin Frank, Elk Grove, QB, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro 2nd team, 47-85, 711 yards, 6 TDs; Sean Nill, Laguna Creek, OL, Jr, All-League, 87 tackles; Scott Malinoff, Davis, QB, All-League, 99-186, 1,420 yards, 12 TDs; Ryan Pearson, Elk Grove, WR, 21 catches, 380 yards, 4 TDs; Joe Williams, Elk Grove, DL, 91 tackles; Johnelle Murphy, Elk Grove Franklin, RB, 76 carries, 340 yards; Jovan Curtis, Laguna Creek, LB, 56 tackles; Corey Browning, Nevada Union, RB, 73 carries, 477 yards; Colin Casey, Nevada Union, WR, 16 catches, 245 yards; Tucker Colomb, Nevada Union, LB, 93 tackles; Brian Stockton, Nevada Union, DE,12 sacks; Matt Anderson, Nevada Union, DB, 4 int; Kamil Shehadeh, Nevada Union, LB, 61 tackles; Steele Jantz, Nevada Union, LB; Mike Saturnino, Nevada Union, OL, Aaron Furtek, Davis, LB, 49 tackles, 6 sacks; Jalen Hamilton-Haywood, Valley, LB, 62 tackles; Terrence Stewart, Valley, OL.
Golden Empire League
Lindhurst (7-5, 5-1) made school history last year, winning the school's first section championship in the school's 30-year existence with a victory over Denair in the Division 6 finals. Most of the stars on the championship team are gone, but Steven Stanaland and Joey Villasenor both return to keep the Blazers in the mix. Capital (8-2, 4-2) emerges as the team to beat in the GEL thanks to the return of quarterback Kramer Hagan, who was the league MVP last year with 2,407 yards passing. Hagan also returns fellow backfield mates Justin Jones and Robert Vigil along with his favorite target, brother Spencer Hagan. Golden Sierra (7-5, 5-1) can't be counted out. The Grizzlies have one of the top defensive backs in the section in Ian Brown (8 ints) and an all-league quarterback in Matt Ellis (1,108 yards passing).
Team to Beat: Capital Christian Cougars
Top MVP Candidate: Kramer Hagan, Capital
Players to Watch: Kramer Hagan, Capital, QB, All-League, league offensive MVP, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 158-250, 2,407 yards, 19 TDs, 80 carries, 372 yards, 10 TDs; Justin Jones, Capital, RB, All-League, 44 catches, 713 yards, 6 TDs; Robert Virgil, Capital, RB, All-League, 80 rushes, 675 yards, 11 TDs; Joey Villasenor, Lindhurst, DB, All-League, 27 catches, 495 yards, 3 TDs, 6 int; Steven Stanaland, Lindhurst, DL, All-League; 66 tackles; Ian Brown, Golden Sierra, WR, All-League, league MVP, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, All-Sac Joaquin Section Honorable Mention, 104 carries, 912 yards, 10 TDs, 22 catches, 345 yards, 8 int, 91 tackles; Matt Ellis, Golden Sierra, QB, All-League, 57-95, 1,108 yards, 7 TDs, 62 carries, 765 yards, 10 TDs; Dean Perkins, Golden Sierra, OL, All-League; Matt Akers, Golden Sierra, LB, All-League, 134 tackles; Brandon Burnett, Golden Sierra, RB, All-League, 72 tackles; Chaz Montague, San Juan, LB, All-League; Derek Stroughter, San Juan, RB, All-League; Tylor Shelgren, Marysville, OT, All-League; Raul Oseguera, Marysville, WR, All-League, 8 catches, 246 yards, 3 TDs; Spencer Hagan, Capital, WR, Jr., 39 catches, 683 yards, 6 TDs; Johnny Bansuelo, Capital, LB, 159 tackles; Nate Giacoma, Capital, LB, 106 tackles; Connor Best, Capital, K, 50 points; Anthony Barrera, Lindhurst, QB, 20-29, 413 yards, 4 TDs; Joey Yettou, Highlands, QB, 35-82, 599 yards, 9 TDs; Ryan Miller, Highlands, LB, 58 tackles, 3 int; Harryson Heilman, Marysville, QB, 43-71, 717 yards, 11 TDs.
Harvest Christian League
The Division 7 champion Calvary Temple Warriors (10-2, 5-0) look like the odds on favorites to win the Harvest Christian League title and repeat as section champs. The Warriors return nearly every key player from last year, including MVP candidates Marcus Cooley and sophomore quarterback Isaiah Burse, who threw an astounding 34 TDs as a freshman. Calvary Temple averaged close to 60 points in league play last year and avenged one of their two losses by beating Vacaville Christian in the Division 7 final 27-14.
Team to Beat: Calvary Temple Warriors
Top MVP Candidate: Marcus Cooley, Calvary Temple
Players to Watch: Isaiah Burse, Calvary Temple, QB, So, All-League, 117-198, 2,313 yards, 34 TDs, 100 carries, 601 yards, 9 TDs; Marcus Cooley, Calvary Temple, RB, All-League, Modesto Bee all-area 2nd team, 25 catches, 638 yards, 9 TDs, 135 carries, 946 yards, 18 TDs, 6 Int; Jamaal Williams, Calvary Temple, WR, All-League, 22 catches, 607 yards, 8 TDs; Julian Castilleja, Calvary Temple, OL, All-League; Ben Bolin, Calvary Temple, K, All-League, 50 points, 3 FG; Matthew Shirk, Brookside Christian, OL, All-League; Kevin Straw, Jim Elliott, DL, All-League, 67 tackles; RJ Hale, Jim Elliott, DB, All-League, 149 carries, 1,166 yards, 14 TDs; Sammy Farias, Calvary Temple, LB, 144 tackles; Aaron Burse, Calvary Temple, LB, 101 tackles; Mason Vickers, Jim Elliott, QB, 43-80, 742 yards, 10 TDs; Matthew Collins, Sierra Ridge, RB, 138 carries, 915 yards, 5 TDs, 64 tackles; Michael Ybarra, Sierra Ridge, LB, Jr., 90 tackles; Matthew Borges, Stone Ridge Christian, RB, 27 carries, 238 yards; Dan Griggs, Big Valley Christian, RB, 156 carries, 836 yards, 9 TDs.
Metro League
The Grant Pacers (13-0, 6-0) made waste of the rest of the Metro League last year, outscoring league teams by an average of 61-1 en route to a 13-0 record and a Division 2 championship. Grant posted one of the most lopsided championship game wins in Sac-Joaquin Section history with a 50-0 win over Union Mine. The bad news for the rest of the Metro League is that it's not going to be much different this year. A 10-0 JV group moves up to replace the graduated seniors. Meanwhile Marselius Williams becomes the focus of the Grant offense after rushing for 1,771 yards last year. How big is the gap between first and second place in the Metro? Burbank (6-5, 5-1) won five league games by an average score of 43-5, yet fell to Grant 54-7.
Team to Beat: Grant Pacers
Top MVP Candidate: Marselius Williams, Grant
Players to Watch: Marselius Williams, Grant, RB, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro 2nd team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 2nd team, 203 carries, 1,771 yards, 21 TDs; Isi Vei, Grant, G; Alesana Laban, Grant, G; Alex Petit, Grant, OL, All-League; Siaosi Heleta, Burbank, MLB, Jr, All-League, 65 tackles; Andrew Carvalho, Kennedy, C, All-League; Daniel Schetter, Kennedy, LB, Jr, All-League, 118 tackles; Drew English, Rosemont, DE, Jr, All-League, 4 sacks; Donavan Ford, Sacramento, OL, All-League; Nick Moultrie, Johnson, QB, All-League, 26-63, 516 yards; Sam Yoder, McClatchy, QB, All-League, 122-246, 1,485 yards, 8 TDs; Melvin Murphy, Grant, RB, 43 carries, 607 yards; Sione Moala, Grant, DL, 63 tackles, 5 sacks; Mike Dawson, Rosemont, QB, 48-87, 829 yards, 8 TDs; Jarrid Boyer, McClatchy, LB, 61 tackles.
Modesto Metro League
Johansen (4-7, 3-1) overcame a horrendous preseason (1-5) to win three straight games and earn a tie for first place with Beyer (7-3, 3-1). Michael Harrison, the league MVP, returns for Johansen along with all-league linemen Rodney Smith and Jesus Cortes. The Patriots need to replace all of their skill players except for all-league receiver Frank Pineda. Ryan Torkelson of Grace Davis (3-7, 1-3) returns as the league's top passer with 1,332 yards last year.
Team to Beat: Beyer Patriots
Top MVP Candidate: Michael Harrison, Johansen
Players to Watch: Michael Harrison, Johansen, RB, All-League, league MVP; Frank Pineda, Beyer, WR, All-League, 13 catches, 238 yards; Trevor Schardjn, Davis, WR, All-League, 28 catches, 488 yards, 8 TDs; Bubba McGill, Modesto, DL, All-League; Spencer Johnson, Downey, OL, 2nd team all-league; Rodney Smith, Johansen, OL, Jr, 2nd team all-league; Jesus Cortes, Johansen, OL, 2nd team all-league; Ryan Torkelson, Davis, QB, 2nd team all-league, 84-172, 1,332 yards, 11 TDs; Ed Harris, Beyer, DL, 2nd team all-league, 40 tackles, 4 sacks; Robert Moncrief, Johansen, 2nd team all-league; Cody Ball, Downey, LB, 2nd team all-league; Johal Preet, Modesto, OL, All-League Honorable Mention; Surrell Briggs, Beyer, RB, 112 carries, 500 yards; Chris Bradley, Modesto, QB, 84-170, 1,098 yards, 10 TDs.
Monticello Empire League
Led by league MVP Terrance Dailey, the Vacaville Bulldogs (13-1, 5-0) captured the MEL crown and the Sac-Joaquin Section Division 1 championship with a 37-36 win over Merced. Dailey led all Sac-Joaquin Section rushers with 2,334 yards and is joined in the backfield by Johnny Feaster, who had 551 yards last season. Napa (9-3, 4-1) will give the Bulldogs a challenge behind the two-pronged attack of John Boyett and Jake Croxdale. Boyett gained 928 yards rushing and 921 yards receiving while Croxdale ran for 1,161 yards.
Team to Beat: Vacaville Bulldogs
Top MVP Candidate: Terrance Dailey, Vacaville
Players to Watch: Terrance Dailey, Vacaville, RB, All-League, league MVP, Sac Bee All-Metro, All-Sac Joaquin Section 1st team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 1st team, 254 carries, 2,334 yards, 26 TDs; Joe Lopez, Vacaville, LB, All-League, 78 tackles; Johnny Feaster, Vacaville, RB, All-League, 57 carries, 551 yards, 7 TDs; John Boyett, Napa, WR, All-League, Napa Register all-area team, Sac Bee All-Metro, All-Sac Joaquin Section 1st team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 1st team, 117 carries, 928 yards, 10 TDs; 61 catches, 921 yards, 7 TDs; 104 tackles, 6 sacks; Jake Croxdale, Napa, RB, All-League, Napa Register all-area team, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 146 carries, 1,155 yards, 20 TDs, 77 tackles; DeAndre Carnell, Fairfield, RB, All-League, 181 carries, 1,161 yards, 13 TDs; Terrel Temple, Fairfield, MLB, All-League; David Smith, Napa, G, Jr, Napa Register all-area honorable mention; Matt Hendrix, Armijo, QB, 102-201, 1,423 yards, 10 TDs, 77 tackles; Ennis Johnson, Armijo, LB, 73 tackles, 5 sacks; James Buccellato, Vintage, QB, 51-112, 908 yards, 8 TDs; Kyle Babb, Wood, DB, 52 tackles; Keith Welch, Fairfield, QB, 81-160, 1,037 yards, 11 TDs.
Mother Lode League
The Calaveras Indians (9-2, 5-0) are usually the team to beat in the MLL, but Bret Harte (4-6, 2-3) could have something to say about that this year. The Bullfrogs return all-league quarterback Ty Bradley (1,170 yards) and his top two receivers, Dan Marwin and Austen Epps. Jesse Green (113 tackles) returns to lead the defense. The Indians are well-stocked at running back with Brooks Hulett and Jake Mote. Kenny Moody, the league's offensive line MVP, will open the holes in the defense. Argonaut (7-3-1, 4-1) should also be solid with running backs John Hickman and Jake Edwards and linebacker Will Edmundson.
Team to Beat: Calaveras Indians
Top MVP Candidate: Ty Bradley, Bret Harte
Players to Watch: Kenny Moody, Calaveras, OL, All-League, offensive line MVP, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention, 33 tackles; Michael Dasso, Linden, OL, All-League; Justin Tornek, Linden, OL, All-League; Jeff Petties, Linden, WR, All-League, 20 catches, 390 yards, 5 TDs; Jake Kimes, Summerville, WR, All-League, 12 catches, 206 yards; Ty Bradley, Bret Harte, QB, All-League, 89-177, 1,170 yards, 9 TDs; Brooks Hulett, Calaveras, RB, All-League, 53-113, 733 yards, 3 TD; Jake Mote, Calaveras, RB, Jr, All-League, 99 carries, 624 yards, 8 TDs; Matt Goggans, Amador, DL, All-League, 48 tackles; Marcus Glavenich, Amador, LB, All-League, 54 tackles; Will Edmundson, Argonaut, LB, All-League, 67 tackles; Jesse Green, Bret Harte, LB, All-League, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention, 113 tackles; Chris Hancock, Argonaut, C, 2nd team all-league; Joey Gellerman, Calaveras, OL, 2nd team all-league; Carson Yager, Argonaut, TE, 2nd team all-league; Dan Marwin, Bret Harte, WR, 2nd team all-league, 23 catches, 388 yards; John Hickman, Argonaut, RB, Jr, 2nd team all-league; Boonie Mason, Argonaut, RB, 2nd team all-league; Jake Edmunds, Argonaut, RB, 2nd team all-league; Ryan Hutchison, Amador, RB, 2nd team all-league; Brett Downey, Bret Harte, DL, 2nd team all-league, 9 sacks; Justin Williams, Amador, DL, Jr, 2nd team all-league; John Edmundson, Amador, DL, 2nd team all-league; Gage Qualls, Amador, DL, 2nd team all-league; Taylor Burgdorf, Bret Harte, LB, 2nd team all-league, 97 tackles; Pat Murphy, Amador, LB, 2nd team all-league; Robbie Moorhead, Summerville, LB, 2nd team all-league, 113 tackles; Charlie Palmer, Linden, LB, 2nd team all-league, 45 tackles; Austen Epps, Bret Harte, DB, 2nd team all-league, 16 catches, 250 yards; Robert Sailele, Bret Harte, DB, Jr., 2nd team all-league, 94 tackles; Matt McKelroy, Calaveras, DB, Jr., 2nd team all-league; JB Smith, Argonaut, TE, all-league honorable mention; Erik Peyton, Argonaut, RB, all-league honorable mention; Ben Morin, Bret Harte, WR, all-league honorable mention; Chandler Anderson, Bret Harte, RB, all-league honorable mention, 72 tackles; Randy Dough, Bret Harte, DE, all-league honorable mention; Carl Gunter, Amador, QB, all-league honorable mention; DJ Masuda, Amador, TE, all-league honorable mention; Mitch Glavenich, Amador, TE, all-league honorable mention, 53 tackles; Matt Zeiderman, Amador, OL, all-league honorable mention; Adam Goggans, Amador, OL, Jr, all-league honorable mention; Devon Frerking, Amador, OL, Jr, all-league honorable mention; Jacob Boyer, Summerville, OL, all-league honorable mention; Bret Watson, Summerville, QB, all-league honorable mention; Derek Picchetti, Summerville, OL, all-league honorable mention.
Pioneer Valley League
Colfax (12-1, 6-0) easily claimed the PVL last year, with a 27-20 win over El Dorado the only close game on the schedule. Only a 34-14 loss to Manteca in the Division 4 finals prevented the Falcons from finishing the year undefeated. Coach Tony Martello loses the bulk of his skill players, but does have the league's best linebacker tandem in Colton Russi and Steven Collier. Finding a replacement for Alex Rump at quarterback will be the key for Colfax. Rump threw for 2,792 yards last year to lead the Sac-Joaquin Section. El Dorado (4-6, 2-4) has the top group of skill players returning in Jared Gavard (2,023 yards passing) and John Paul Turner (635 yards rushing). Both Bear River (7-4, 5-1) and Lincoln (6-5, 4-2) figure to challenge for a playoff spot with several all-league linemen returning on both teams.
Team to Beat: Colfax Falcons
Top MVP Candidate: Jared Gavard, El Dorado
Players to Watch: Colton Russi, Colfax, LB, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 142 tackles; Joel Davis, Bear River, OL, All-League; Spencer Kranz, Bear River, OL, All-League; Ramon Ricardo, Lincoln, OL, All-League; Tony Ramirez, Lincoln, OL, All-League, 53 tackles; Jared Gavard, El Dorado, QB, All-League, 159-265, 2,023 yards, 12 TDs; Jon Paul Turner, El Dorado, RB, All-League, 117 carries, 635 yards, 7 TDs; Trevor Peterson, El Dorado, TE, Jr., All-League, 33 catches, 414 yards; Austin Wentworth, Whitney, DL, All-League, 55 tackles; Josh Mikol, Whitney, DB, All-League, 144 carries, 607 yards; Steven Collier, Colfax, LB, 72 tackles; Joey Ballenger, Colfax, WR; David Zablotny, Colfax, RB; Kyle Fowler, Colfax, OL; Rex Sievers, Lincoln, RB, 67 carries, 689 yards; Jordan Yarber, Lincoln, WR, 14 catches, 228 yards; Chris Chelgren, El Dorado, LB, 79 tackles; Charlie Harrison, Placer, QB, 55-125, 694 yards, 5 TDs; Ross Moskwa, Placer, RB, 159 carries, 816 yards; Bobby Classon, Placer, RB, 92 carries, 555 yards; John Kok, Placer, S, 82 tackles; Will Olson, Whitney, QB, 75-155, 800 yards, 5 TD.
Sacramento Metro Athletic League
The Vacaville Christian Falcons (11-1, 5-0) figure to have another strong season thanks to the presence of sophomore running back Kwuan Strong. As a freshman, Strong ran for 624 yards and 9 TDs and also had 68 tackles on defense. He's joined by running back Pilot Smith and quarterback David Risucci in the backfield. VC won 11 straight games last year before falling to Calvary Temple in the Division 7 finals. North Hills Christian (5-6, 3-2) will have to replace Darrin Farias, who threw for nearly 4,000 yards in two seasons as the Golden Eagles' quarterback.
Team to Beat: Vacaville Christian Falcons
Top MVP Candidate: Kwuan Strong, Vacaville Christian
Players to Watch: Pilot Smith, Vacaville Christian, RB, All-League, 66 tackles; Kwuan Strong, Vacaville Christian, RB, Soph, All-League, 64 carries, 624 yards, 9 TDs, 68 tackles; Will Cope, Vacaville Christian, OL, All-League, 84 tackles; David Risucci, Valley Christian, QB, All-League, 429 yards; Brandon Hood, Vacaville Christian, RB, 59 carries, 657 yards, 11 TDs; Taylor Boe, Vacaville Christian, LB, 62 tackles; Alex Williams, Bradshaw Christian, QB, 43-87, 798 yards, 11 TDs; Tyler Wood, Bradshaw Christian, RB, 54 carries, 486 yards, 6 TDs; Tyler Takahashi, Bradshaw Christian, RB, 106 carries, 479 yards; Jake Powers, Bradshaw Christian, WR, Soph, 19 catches, 451 yards, 9 TDs; Joseph Pigeon, Bradshaw Christian, LB, 86 tackles.
San Joaquin AA League
The Lincoln Trojans (8-4, 5-0) bounced back from three straight losses in the preseason to simply dominate the San Joaquin AA League, averaging 48 points in five league games including a 33-7 win over second-place Franklin. The Trojans have talented linebacker DeWit Stuckey back after an MVP season last year when he had 116 tackles and six sacks. On offense, Lincoln has junior quarterback Robb Post back for his second year on the varsity. Post is also one of the top kickers in the section. He'll get plenty of protection from all-area lineman Matt Meyer. Franklin (7-5, 4-1) rebounded from the early season loss to Lincoln to win five straight games, including a playoff win over Johansen. Franklin eventually lost to Merced in the second round. The Yellowjackets should be solid at running back where both Solomon Martin (1,294 yards) and Billy Gonzalez (652 yards) return. Justin Evans (970 yards passing) returns to lead Tracy (6-4, 3-2). His favorite target, all-league wide receiver Andrew Diaz, also returns.
Team to Beat: Lincoln Trojans
Top MVP Candidate: Robb Post, Lincoln
Players to Watch: DeWit Stuckey, Lincoln, LB, All-League, League Defensive MVP, Stockton Record all-area first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 3rd team, 116 tackles, 6 sacks; Robb Post, Lincoln, K-P, Jr, All-League, Stockton Record all-area first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomores, 38-88, 678 yards, 9 TDs; 60 points, 5 FG; Demareya Nelson, Lincoln, FB, Jr, All-League; 88 carries, 602 yards, 7 TDs; Anthony Dials, Lincoln, WR, All-League; 16 catches, 322 yards, 4 TDs; Matt Meyer, Lincoln, T, All-League, Stockton Record all-area first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 2nd team; Mitchell Kamaiopili, Lincoln, C, all-league honorable mention; Alan Flemons, Lincoln, RB, all-league honorable mention; Francisco Rodriguez, Lincoln, T, all-league honorable mention; Joshua Niemeyer, Lodi, DB, All-League, 30 catches, 477 yards; Justin Evans, Tracy, QB, All-League, 83-139, 970 yards, 7 TDs; Timmy Celestine, Tracy, RB, All-League, 61 carries, 695 yards, 9 TDs; Andrew Diaz, Tracy, WR, All-League, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention, 35 catches, 566 yards, 6 TDs; Nate Pombo, Tracy, LB, All-League, 56 tackles; Tyler Daniels, Tracy, DB, All-League, 73 tackles; Stephen Memory, Tracy, DE, all-league honorable mention, 51 tackles, 9.5 sacks; Billy Gonzalez, Franklin, RB, Jr., All-League, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team, 32 carries, 652 yards, 8 TDs; Solomon Martin, Franklin, RB, All-League, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team, 122 carries, 1,294 yards, 15 TDs, 11 catches, 311 yards; Juan Alvarado, Franklin, OL, All-League, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team; William Opeta, Franklin, P, All-League, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team; Jordan Whitley, Lodi, RB, 126 carries, 774 yards, 5 TDs; Ryan Carleton, Lodi, LB, 83 tackles; Conner Peterson, Lodi, FS, 58 tackles.
Sierra Foothill League
Defense will likely lead the way for the Del Oro Golden Eagles (10-2, 5-0) this year. With many of the team's offensive stars lost to graduation, the Eagles are still solid on the defensive side of the ball with league defensive MVP Hunter Pahl at linebacker along with fellow linebacking standouts Jason Heath and Jeremy Hart. All-league defensive back Craig Andri also returns for the Golden Eagles. Granite Bay (9-3, 4-1) returns the league's top quarterback in Thomas Moss (1,446 yards passing), but will have to replace a number of starters. Third place was a two-team race between Roseville (7-4, 2-3) and Woodcreek (5-5, 2-3). Roseville has one of the league's top defensive talents in Cullen Newsome while Woodcreek will look to Ronnie Brooks to lead on offense at wide receiver.
Team to Beat: Del Oro Golden Eagles
Top MVP Candidate: Hunter Pahl, Del Oro
Players to Watch: Hunter Pahl, Del Oro, LB, All-League, league defensive MVP, Sac Bee All-Metro 2nd team, All-Sac Joaquin Section Honorable Mention, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 3rd team, 80 tackles, 14 TDs; Craig Andri, Del Oro, DB, All-League, 40 tackles; Ryan Otten, Del Oro, WR, All-League; Jack Reynosa, Del Oro, TE; Jason Heath, Del Oro, LB; Jeremy Hart, Del Oro, LB; Cullen Newsome, Roseville, DB, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention, 85 tackles, 4 Int; Daniel Kirk, Roseville, OL, All-League; Ronnie Brooks, Woodcreek, WR, All-League, 37 catches, 789 yards, 7 TDs; Chris Garrison, Rocklin, WR, All-League, 39 catches, 739 yards; Ryan Lacy, Oakmont, RB, All-League, 193 carries, 1,178 yards, 12 TDs; Thomas Moss, Granite Bay, QB, 108-171, 1,446 yards, 8 TDs; Chase Sherk, Granite Bay, LB, 76 tackles; James Nunley, Woodcreek, RB, Soph, 118 carries, 691 yards, 10 TDs; Joey Cabanyong, Woodcreek, DB, 81 tackles; Daniel Weld, Woodcreek, DB, 81 tackles; Ryan Taylor, Oakmont, QB, 93-161, 1,167 yards, 7 TDs.
Sierra Valley League
Union Mine (10-2, 5-0) had an outstanding season in 2006, reaching the Division 2 championship game before falling to Grant. UM was senior dominated last year, aside from all-league wide receiver Spencer McKenzie, which could open the way for Oak Ridge (6-5, 4-1) to return to the top of the league standings. The Trojans have the league's top returning running back in David Trifeletti as well as one of the rising juniors in wide receiver Brett Thompson. RB Joaquin Orejel will look to fill the big shoes of Lamon Muldrow (2,303 rushing yards) for the Cordova Lancers (6-5, 3-2).
Team to Beat: Oak Ridge Trojans
Top MVP Candidate: David Trifeletti, Oak Ridge
Players to Watch: Spencer McKenzie, Union Mine, WR, All-League; Darren Tuttle, Oak Ridge, TE, All-League, 60 tackles, 20 catches, 253 yards, 5 TDs; Brett Thompson, Oak Ridge, WR, Jr, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro 2nd team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomores, 53 catches, 894 yards, 11 TDs; David Trifeletti, Oak Ridge, RB, All-League, 227 carries, 1,367 yards, 13 TDs; Joaquin Orejel, Cordova, WR, All-League, 11 catches, 115 yards; Caleb Short, Cordova, OT, All-League; Taylor Schablaske, Ponderosa, WR, All-League, 37 catches, 677 yards, 7 TDs; Danny Bird, CBS, LB, All-League; 154 tackles; Cole Rasmussen, Galt, DB, All-League, 76-156, 833 yards, 5 TDs; Jarred Waldie, Cordova, K, 50 points, 4 FG; Keith Jonutz, Ponderosa, LB, Jr, 87 tackles; Josh Tucker, CBS, RB, 109 carries, 700 yards; Micah Piggee, Galt, RB, 84 carries, 505 yards.
Solano County League
The Rodriguez Mustangs (7-4, 5-0) return a pair of all-league running backs in Eugene Escalante and Michael Johnson and that will help keep Rodriguez at the top of the Solano County League standings. Benicia (7-3, 3-2) figures to be in the mix with the return of Boy Humphrey at quarterback and Davonn Brumfield in the backfield. Bethel (7-4, 3-2) edged out Benicia for a playoff spot last year and will likely battle the Panthers for a postseason bid again this year. Michael Wallace, RB, and Essex Cook, LB, return to lead the Jaguars.
Team to Beat: Rodriguez Mustangs
Top MVP Candidate: Eugene Escalane, Rodriguez
Players to Watch: Eugene Escalante, Rodriguez, RB, Jr, All-League, 96 carries, 611 yards, 11 TDs; Michael Johnson, Rodriguez, RB, All-League, 76 carries, 722 yards, 9 TDs; Eric Jeremera, Vanden, OL, All-League; Deshon Scott, Rodriguez, DL, All-League; Davonn Brumfield, Benicia, DB, All-League, 10 catches, 187 yards, 39 tackles; Boy Humphrey, Benicia, QB, 2nd team all-league, 62-142, 871 yards, 9 TDs; Willie Pitts, Vanden, RB, 2nd team all-league, 93 carries, 730 yards, 11 TDs; Michael Wallace Bethel, RB, 2nd team all-league; Marquez, Henderson, Vanden, WR, 2nd team all-league, 19 catches, 374 yards, 5 TDs; Joel Hudson, Rodriguez, OL, 2nd team all-league; Roman Cruz, Hogan, DL, 2nd team all-league; McKenzie Moli, Vallejo, LB, 2nd team all-league, 70 tackles; Essex Cook, Bethel, LB, all-league honorable mention; Richard Luke, Bethel, OL, all-league honorable mention; Chad Hurst, Vanden, QB, Jr, all-league honorable mention, 76-163, 907 yards, 9 TDs; Ryan Pablo, Vanden, OL, Jr, all-league honorable mention; Jesse Perotti, Vanden, TE, all-league honorable mention; LeAndre McClanahan, Vallejo, LB, 62 tackles.
Southern League
The Denair Coyotes (8-4, 5-0) fell just short of capturing the Division 6 championship, falling to Lindhurst in the finals. With all-league quarter back Garrett Soares (1,388 yards) and all-league running back Alex Corriea (587 yards) returning in the backfield and league MVP Daniel Doniego back on the line, the Coyotes will be the favorite to win the Southern League again and possibly return to the Division 6 finals. Mariposa (9-3, 4-1) appears solid with Mike McNally and Cody Guenthart back catching passes, Derek Hooper running the ball and Coleman Wright making the tackles.
Team to Beat: Denair Coyotes
Top MVP Candidate: Garrett Soares, Denair
Players to Watch: Daniel Doniego, Denair, OL, All-League, league MVP, 5 sacks; Steven Gisler, Mariposa, OL, All-League; Jordan Baker, Delhi, OL, All-League, 109 tackles; Samuel Ruelas, Delhi, OL, All-League; Dominic Giampoli, LeGrand, OL, All-League; John Humphries, Turlock Christian, OL, All-League; Gerardo Campos, LeGrand, RB, All-League; Garrett Soares, Denair, QB, All-League, 102-175, 1,388 yards, 10 TDs; Ricardo Galvez, LeGrand, DL, All-League; Coleman Wright, Mariposa, LB, All-League, 10 sacks; Jaime Garcia, LeGrand, LB, All-League; Marcus McIlwain, Waterford, LB, All-League, 74 tackles; Jordan Buchanon, Turlock Christian, LB, All-League, 103 tackles; Mike McNally, Mariposa, DB, All-League, 25 catches, 474 yards, 6 Int; Jeff Moran, Waterford, G, all-league honorable mention; Jordan Logan, Waterford, QB, All-League, 77-153, 1,145 yards, 6 TDs; Alex Corriea, Denair, RB, All-League, 68 carries, 587 yards, 8 TDs; Derek Hooper, Mariposa, RB, 147 carries, 802 yards; Cody Guenthart, Mariposa, WR, 20 catches, 344 yards; Lincoln Clapper, Delhi, QB, 38-61, 805 yards, 9 TDs; Oscar Mentoza, Delhi, LB, 111 tackles; Zach Fowler, Waterford, WR, 14 catches, 367 yards.
Trans Valley League
Modesto Christian (12-1, 5-0) took over the top spot in the TVL last year, a place usually reserved for the Escalon Cougars (10-2, 4-1) Escalon won nine straight before losing two of its last three games to MC and Central Catholic. The Cougars could move back to the top of the league this year with the return of quarterback Nick Aprile, running back Josh May and defensive back Jacob Caton. Modesto Christian can't be counted out. RJ Saucer and Cisco Green return in the offensive and defensive backfields while Caleb Wry anchors the line. Hughson (4-6, 2-3) has the top returning rusher in Aaron Stice (1,553 yards, 21 TDs).
Team to Beat: Escalon Cougars
Top MVP Candidate: Aaron Stice, Hughson
Players to Watch: Trevor Cox, Ripon, OL, All-League; Josh May, Escalon, RB, All-League, 151 carries, 1,025 yards, 19 TDs; Aaron Stice, Hughson, RB, All-League, 209 carries, 1,553 yards, 21 TDs; Jesus Duran, Escalon, K, All-League, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team, 64 pionts, 3 FGs; Jake Ramos, Riverbank, DT, All-League; RJ Saucer, Modesto Christian, DB, All-League, 55 tackles; Collin Debough, Hughson, All-League; Joe Cowan, Escalon, OL, 2nd team all-league; Caleb Wry, Modesto Christian, OL, 2nd team all-league; Brandon Collins, Escalon, WR, 2nd team all-league; Evan Gunther, Riverbank, WR, 2nd team all-league, 41 catches, 725 yards, 7 TDs; Anthony Sahagun, Riverbank, QB, 2nd team all-league, 114-257, 1,365 yards, 9 TDs; Joe Machado, Escalon, RB, 2nd team all-league, 109 carries, 724 yards; James Schaapman, Ripon Christian, LB, 2nd team all-league, 91 tackles; Cisco Green, Modesto Christian, DB, 2nd team all-league, 45 tackles; Jacob Caton, Escalon, DB, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team; Nick Aprile, Escalon, QB, 42-81, 879, 7 TDs.
Tri-City League
Merrill West (9-4, 5-0) had a solid run in the playoffs, knocking off Beyer and Lincoln before barely falling to Merced 31-28. The Wolfpack return league MVP Tyler Kenton (1,261 yards) at running back along with all-league linemen Daniel Bang-Knudsen and Isaac Wyant. St. Mary's (6-4, 4-1) has one of the top receiving talents in the section in Gerome Surrell. He teams with Pat Jemrigbe to give the Rams one of the top receiving tandems in the section. Edison (5-5, 2-3), however, may have the league best receiver in Trumaine Johnson. He caught 40 passes last year with 9 TDs and was also in on 67 tackles on defense. He gets help from all-league tight end Tyler Gladney.
Team to Beat: Merrill West Wolfpack
Top MVP Candidate: Tyler Kenton, Merrill West
Players to Watch: Trumaine Johnson, Edison, WR, All-League, Stockton Record all-area 1st team, 40 catches, 703 yards, 9 TDs, 67 tackles; Tyler Gladney, Edison, TE, All-League; Brandon Pasqual, Edison, RB, all-league honorable mention, 76 carries, 442 yards; Marc Porras, Edison, K, Jr, all-league honorable mention, 69 tackles; Josh Canela, Edison, RB, all-league honorable mention; Anthony McPherson, Edison, OL, All-League; Daniel Murrilo, McNair, WR, All-League; Gerome Surrell, St. Mary's, WR, All-League, Stockton Record all-area 1st team, All-Sac Joaquin Section Honorable Mention, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 3rd team, 34 catches, 723 yards, 6 TDs; Adam Poirier, St. Mary's, LB, All-League, 65 tackles; Pat Jemerigbe, St. Mary's, WR, All-League; Stockton Record all-area 2nd team, 4 Int; Nick Coproviza, St. Mary's, DB, All-League, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention, 67 tackles; Chris Wilson, St. Mary's, RB, All-League, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention; Alex Moore, St. Mary's, DB, all-league honorable mention; Martin Jucutan, St. Mary's, OL, all-league honorable mention; LJ Washington, Stagg, QB, All-League, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention, 103 carries, 501 yards, 6 TDs; John Wang, Stagg, C, All-League; Robert Longley, Stagg, TE, All-League; Antonio Rodriguez, Stagg, TE, all-league honorable mention; Joe Dabney, Stagg, RB, all-league honorable mention; Eric Mahan, Stagg, RB, all-league honorable mention; Williams Miles, Tokay, RB, All-League, 174 carries, 1,095 yards, 17 TDs; Jordan Costa, Tokay, T, All-League, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention; Casey McCurdy, Tokay, QB, all-league honorable mention, 85-137, 1,108 yards, 11 TDs; Tyler Kenton, West, RB, All-League, league MVP, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team, 221 carries, 1,261 yards, 13 TDs; Daniel Bang Knudsen, West, OL, All-League; Isaac Wyant, West, OL, All-League; Mufaro Zakers, West, TE, all-league honorable mention, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention, 64 tackles; Frank Cabrera, West, QB, Jr, all-league honorable mention; Calvin Brown, Tokay, WR, 20 catches, 279 yards, 4 TDs.
Tri-County League
The Inderkum Tigers (10-2, 4-1) and the Pioneer Patriots (9-4, 5-0) battled it out for the league championship last year with the Patriots winning 24-19. Those two teams could battle for the title again this year, although Inderkum appears to return a few more weapons than the Patriots. Defensive end Greg Grimes and linebacker Domian Williams will lead the Tiger defense while Stephen Payton is the top Pioneer defensive player. Both teams will look for newcomers on offense to lead the way. Yuba City (5-5, 2-3) could be the surprise team this year. Longtime Northern Section coach John Ithurburn returns to his alma mater to lead the Honkers. Yuba City has Josh Schattner (1,093 yards rushing) and Josh Hudson (1,192 yards passing) to lead the way.
Team to Beat: Inderkum Tigers
Top MVP Candidate: Domian Williams, Inderkum
Players to Watch: Greg Grimes, Inderkum, DE, All-League, Sac Bee All-Metro 2nd team; Domian Williams, Inderkum, LB, All-League, 88 carries, 824 yards, 10 TDs; Josh Schattner, Yuba City, DB, All-League, 132 carries, 1,093 yards, 18 TDs; Dylan Thomas, Yuba City, WR, All-League, 19 catches, 503 yards, 8 TDs; Oscar Herrera, Yuba City, OL, All-League; Anthony Benal, River Valley, OL, All-League; Jesus Chavez, River Valley, RB, Jr, All-League; Justin Kindelt, Woodland, C, All-League; Garrett Roberts, Woodland, RB, All-League, 52 tackles; Garrett Durst, Woodland, FS, All-League; Deangelo Garrett, Inderkum, LB, 79 tackles; Stephen Payton, Pioneer, DE, 79 tackles, 5.5 sacks; Josh Hudson, Yuba City, QB, 61-132, 1,192 yards, 13 TDs; Kapena Tangaro, Yuba City, SS, 85 tackles; Mike Dean, River Valley, RB, 179 carries, 756 yards, 6 TDs.
Valley Oak League
The Manteca Buffaloes (13-0, 7-0) were one of the few teams in the state to post a 13-0 record last year, but most of that talent is gone, aside from all-league linebacker Nick Ortiz. That opens the door for Oakdale (8-3, 6-1), which returns all-league lineman Rudi Burtschi and all-league quarterback Devin Combs. Sonora (6-5, 5-2) will also be in the thick of things with all-league running back Alex Kemp and all-league linebacker Ryan Miller back for their senior seasons.
Team to Beat: Oakdale Mustangs
Top MVP Candidate: Alex Kemp, Sonora
Players to Watch: Alex Kemp, Sonora, RB, All-League; Rudi Burtschi, Oakdale, DL, All-League, Modesto Bee all-area first team; Nick Ortiz, Manteca, LB, All-League, Stockton Record all-area 2nd team, Modesto Bee all-area 2nd team, 57 tackles, 8 sacks;
Ryan Miller, Sonora, LB, All-League; Adrian Fuentes, Manteca, DB, All-League, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention; Curtis Berry, Weston Ranch, OL, 2nd team all-league; Jesse Ruiz, Oakdale, OL, 2nd team all-league; Devin Combs, Oakdale, QB, 2nd team all-league; Rodney Pereira, Oakdale, WR, 2nd team all-league; Cory Mootz, Sierra, RB, 2nd team all-league; Tyler Dodd, Central Valley, DL 2nd team all-league; Sean McLeod, Central Valley, DL, 2nd team all-league; Brandon McClure, Oakdale, LB, 2nd team all-league; Avery White, Sierra, DB, 2nd team all-league; Joaquin Casas, Central Valley, RB, all-league honorable mention; Gerard Garcia, Central Valley, WR, all-league honorable mention; Tony Marques, Central Valley, WR, all-league honorable mention; Ricky Rogers, Central Valley, WR, Jr, all-league honorable mention; Andrew Segmiller, Central Valley, OL, all-league honorable mention; Brent Avila, Ceres, all-league honorable mention; Devin Eddy, Ceres, DB, all-league honorable mention; Beau Fryer, Manteca, WR, all-league honorable mention; Ted Gilton, Oakdale, all-league honorable mention; Chris Gonzales, Oakdale, all-league honorable mention; Clayton Wagner, Oakdale, all-league honorable mention; Bryce Wells, Oakdale, all-league honorable mention; Nigel Malone, Sierra, WR, all-league honorable mention, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention; Derek Sinclair, Sierra, TE, all-league honorable mention, 75 tackles; Kolt Canady, Sonora, DB, all-league honorable mention; Zach Kerzich, Sonora, DB, all-league honorable mention; Colton Rosenfield, Sonora, S, all-league honorable mention; Daniel Brown, Weston Ranch, OL, all-league honorable mention; Robert Seagram, Weston Ranch, OL, all-league honorable mention; Reuben Silva, Sierra, DB, Stockton Record all-area 1st team, 6 Int, 45 tackles; Josh Bowen, Weston Ranch, QB, Stockton Record all-area honorable mention; Teddy Anderson, East Union, QB, 52-130, 713 yards, 6 TDs.
Western Athletic League
The Central Catholic Raiders (12-1, 5-0) saw their long winning streak (60 plus games) come to an end in the first game of the season against Cardinal Newman, but they then proceeded to win 12 straight games and a Division 5 championship over Modesto Christian. Don't expect any changes this year as league MVP Louis Bland returns in the backfield after rushing for 1,876 yards and 31 touchdowns last year. Also one of the top wrestlers in the nation, Bland could become the all-time leading touchdown scorer in the Sac-Joaquin Section. With 75 career TDs and 450 career points, he is closing in on the all-time section records of 99 TDs and 594 points, held by Grant's Onterrio Smith (according to Cal-Hi Sports). Bland will have two of the section's best leading the way in center Dominic Galas and league offensive line MVP Daniel Johansen. Like Bland, Galas is one of the top wrestlers in the state as well. Patterson (9-3, 4-1) has the best chance of giving the Raiders any trouble this year. The Tigers return league MVP running back Robby Samano, league defensive MPV Keith Yamamoto and league defensive back MVP Johnny Garcia.
Team to Beat: Central Catholic Raiders
Top MVP Candidate: Louis Bland, Central Catholic
Players to Watch: Louis Bland, Central Catholic, RB, All-league, league MVP, Modesto Bee all-area team, All-Sac Joaquin Section 1st team, Cal-Hi Sports Small Schools All-State Team, Cal-Hi Sports All-Underclass 1st team, 181 carries, 1,876 yards, 31 TDs; Robby Samano, Patterson, RB, All-league, league MVP; 50 carries, 334 yards, 8 TDs; Daniel Johansen, Central Catholic, OL, All-league, league lineman MVP; Keith Yamamoto, Patterson, LB, All-league, league defensive MVP, Modesto Bee all-area team, 71 tackles; Dominic Galas, Central Catholic, DL, All-league, league defensive line MVP, Modesto Bee all-area team, Cal-Hi Sports Small Schools All-State Team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass 3rd team; Johnny Garcia, Patterson, DB, All-league, league defensive back MVP, Modesto Bee all-area 2nd team, 25 catches, 391 yards, 5 Int; Gordy Inocencio, Patterson, RB, All-league; Alfredo Serrano, Patterson, DL, All-league, 68 tackles, 15 sacks; Blake Carter, Orestimba, OL, 2nd team all-league; Vince Mattos, Orestimba, DL, 2nd team all-league; Justin Zalinski, Gustine, DL, 2nd team all-league; Matt Lawrence, Central Catholic, DL, 2nd team all-league; Shon Martin, Central Catholic, LB, 2nd team all-league, 71 tackles; Corey Felber, Orestimba, LB, 2nd team all-league, 57 tackles; Daniel Reza, Patterson, QB, 59-116, 981 yards, 8 TDs; Ross Gonsalves, Hilmar, WR, 18 catches, 313 yards, 5 TDs.
"Players to Watch" are based on all-league teams, all-area teams and statistics posted on MaxPreps for the 2006 season. Some players may have transfered to other schools prior to the 2007 season or were mis-identified as underclassmen last year.