Pillars of Power: The Record's 2016 prep football preview

PILLARS

OF POWER

2016 Prep Football Preview

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

AN INTRODUCTION TO FOOTBALL SEASON

2016: ‘PILLARS OF POWER’ RETURN High school football players might be too young or too busy to enjoy the medieval soap opera “Game of Thrones.”

But those fictional characters’ obsession with the craft of winning, jostling to be the best, and to rule all those around them, well… that’s fitting for prep football in Stockton, San Joaquin County and the Mother Lode.

Usual suspects like St. Mary’s, Stagg, and Manteca lurk as pillars of power in their respective leagues, while Lincoln and Tracy fight with vigor to return to the top.

St. Mary’s is the two-time

defending Tri-City Athletic League champion, and is unbeaten against area teams the past two seasons.

In fact, since coach Tony Franks returned to St. Mary’s in 2002, the Rams are 95-12 against San Joaquin County opposition. The Rams reached a section final in 2014 and the semifinals last autumn.

Stagg, under 12th-year coach Don Norton, has claimed two outright league banners in the past three seasons. It was the TCAL in 2013, and the San Joaquin Athletic Association in 2015.

South off Highway 99, Manteca is

hoping its reign over the city continues. Sure, the Sierra Timberwolves are defending section and state champions, but the Buffaloes take solace in having beaten their rivals by 35 points in the regular season.

Sierra, though, has its championship rings and the memories and swagger that come with them.

For Manteca, consecutive nine-win seasons and section quarterfinals appearances just don’t cut it. Perhaps for parents and casual fans that’s fine, but for longtime coach Eric Reis (three section banners) and his boys, the tradition is so rich that the

expectations are borderline unfair.

Lincoln and Tracy are vying to be TCAL championship contenders, and to squash the notion that the league and area belong to St. Mary’s, and St. Mary’s alone.

That’s what 2016 is about. It begins Friday. And kingdoms will rise and fall.

— Contact reporter Thomas Lawrence at (209) 546-8272 or tlawrence@recordnet.com. Follow him at recordnet.com/sportsblog and on Twitter @RecordPreps

PRESEASON ALL-AREA FIRST TEAM

DB – Isaiah Downes (Lincoln, senior) DB – Cutrell Haywood (Stagg, senior) KR – Hassani Zackery (Edison, junior) P – Tre Tuipuloto Willis Jr. (Lathrop, senior)

Franklin Chris Cash (DB, DET/ATL, 2002, 2004-2005) Frank Strong (LB, SF, 2002) Windrell Hayes (WR, NYJ, 2000-2001) Webster Slaughter (WR, CLE/HOU/KC/ NYJ/SD, 1986-1996, 1998) Al Gross (DB, CLE, 1983-1987) Lincoln Brandin Cooks (WR, NO, 2014-present) Louis Rankin (RB, OAK/SEA, 2009) Shante Carver (DE, DAL, 1994-1997) Ed Fisher (G/C, HOU, 1974-1982) Bob Heinz (DT, MIA/WAS, 1969-1974, 1976-1978) Bill Sandeman (T/DT, DAL/NO/ATL, 1966-1973) Linden Brian Peets (TE, SEA/SF, 1978-1979, 1981) Don Campora (T/DT, SF/WAS, 1950, 1952-1953) Lodi Greg Bishop (G/T, NYG/ATL, 1993-1999) Walt Harris (DB, SD, 1987) Bill Munson (QB, LA Rams/SEA/SD/BUF, 1964-1979) Carl Kammerer (DE/LB, SF/WAS, 1961-1969) Earl Klapstein (T, PIT, 1946) Larry Siemering (C, BOS, 1935-1936) Manteca Don Morgan (DB, MIN/ARIZ, 1999-2002) Paul Wiggin (DE, CLE, 1957-1967) Ernie Barber (C/LB, WAS, 1945) Jim Barber (T, BOS/WAS, 1935-1941)

St. Mary’s Doug Martin (RB, TB, 2012-present) John Estes (C, JAX, 2011-2012) Windrell Hayes (WR, NYJ, 2000-2001) Eric Williams (DE/DT/NT, DET/WAS, 1984-1993) Stagg Lonzell Hill (WR, NO, 1987-1990) John Farley (RB, CIN, 1984) George Visger (DT, SF, 1980) Stockton Charlie Browning (RB, NYJ, 1965) Bob Denton (DE/T, CLE/MIN, 1960-1964) John Nisby (G, PIT/WAS, 1957-1964) Eddie Macon (DB/RB, CHI/OAK, 1952-1953, 1960) Don Campora (T/DT, SF/WAS, 1950, 1952-1953) Jake Leicht (RB/DB, BAL Colts, 1948-1949) Tony Calvelli (C/G, DET/SF, 1939-1940, 1947) Tokay Julius Thomas (TE, DEN/JAX, 2011-present) Reagan Maui’a (RB, MIA/CIN/ARIZ, 2007-2008, 2010-2012) Tracy Matt Overton (LS, IND, 2012-present) Bob Swenson (LB, DEN, 1975-1979, 1981-1983) Scott Stringer (DB, STL, 1974) Nick Eddy (RB, DET, 1968-1970, 1972) Bobby Post (DB, NYG, 1967) West Amini Silatolu (G, CAR/CHI, 2012-present)

OFFENSE QB – Jake Dunniway (St. Mary’s, senior) RB – Noah Preuss (Calaveras, senior) RB – Dusty Frampton (St. Mary’s, junior) RB – Austin Sith (McNair, senior) TE – Miquan Maxey (Lincoln, senior) WR – Dewey Cotton (St. Mary’s, senior) WR – Damion Pursley (Franklin, senior) WR – Keaton Hampton (St. Mary’s, senior) OL – Popo Aumavae (St. Mary’s, senior) OL – Ryan Williams (Lincoln, senior) OL – Dominic Splan (Tracy, senior) OL – Mikie Prefling (St. Mary’s, senior) OL – Kyle Reis (Manteca, junior) UT – Josh Alvarado (Tracy, junior) UT – Aaron Thomas (Lincoln, senior) K – Jack Weaver (East Union, senior) DEFENSE DL – Cole Norgaard (St. Mary’s, senior) DL – Justin Kakala (Manteca, junior) DL – Keller Salmon (St. Mary’s, senior) DL – Zach Fleming (Tokay, junior) LB – Jalend Dinwiddie (Stagg, senior) LB – Seuseu Alofaituli (Sierra, senior) LB – Ferrin Manuleleua (Manteca, junior) LB – Seth Tennis (McNair, senior) DB/OLB – Nashon Tamiano (Sierra, senior) DB – David Ford (St. Mary’s, senior)

ALL-TIME NFL ALUMNI A list of all area high school products who’ve played in the NFL Players are identified by name, with position, teams and years played in parenthesis Edison Trumaine Johnson (CB, STL/LA Rams, 2012-present) Lavelle Hawkins (WR, TEN, 2008-2013) Chris Henry (RB, TEN/SEA, 2007-2010) Lynell Hamilton (RB, NO, 2008-2009) Derek Kennard (G/C, STL/PHX/NO/DAL, 1986-1996) Dennis Edwards (DE, LA Rams, 1987) Willard Harrell (RB, GB/STL, 1975-1984) Jeff Simmons (WR, LA Rams, 1983) Prentice McCray (DB, NE/DET, 1974-1980) Blanchard Carter (T, TB, 1977) J.D. Hill (WR, BUF/DET, 1971-1977) Fred Heron (DT/DE, STL Cardinals, 1966-1972) Jimmy Smith (DB, DEN, 1969) Saint Saffold (SE/WR, CIN, 1968) Willie Simpson (FB, OAK, 1962)

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

SJAA: CHAVEZ TITANS

Grim brings fire, ‘swagger’ to program

By Thomas Lawrence

Chavez Titans

Record Staff Writer

STOCKTON — Zubair Ali has been on-board for a league championship before. So the Chavez middle linebacker knows what it takes.

Ali, a senior leader for the Titans under first-year coach La Te’f Grim, was on the roster in 2014 when Chavez won the Zubair Ali SJAA outright for the program’s first league banner. He’s confident in the energy and ability Dennis McCrae of Grim, and his teammates make no bones about it – they believe the SJAA is theirs to win.

“We’ve gained a lot of confidence. Coach Grim has a certain swagger that he brings everyday,” Ali said. “Our offense is much more fast-paced than it was last year. Bringing in a new coaching staff is different, and we’re taking on the role pretty well.”

That offense is an uptempo, shotgun spread, designed to get plays off quickly, exhaust defenses and let the Titans run wild in the fourth quarter. Yet, this roster’s major concern is wide

Chavez High announced La Te’f Grim would be its new head football coach in early August. Grim was Brookside Christian coach from 2004-2012 and won two Sac-Joaquin Section championships. CALIXTRO ROMIAS/THE RECORD

receivers’ inexperience – said Grim, a former Franklin High and Pitt wide out – and he believes in the Titans’ running game.

“We’re going to spread the ball still, but we’re going to run it,” said Grim, who won two section titles during his tenure as Brookside Christian coach from 2004-2012. “You might end up seeing a 1,000yard rusher.”

That would be the third in a row, after Priest Jennings did it in 2014 and Terrance Ritzow did so in 2015.

As of Aug. 10, the first day for Sac-Joaquin Section teams to practice in pads, Chavez was yet to choose its starting quarterback. The two main competitors were John Michael Supangan (5-foot9, 175-pound senior) and Jamal Fullard (5-9, 165 and a junior).

QUOTE OF NOTE “He pushes us like he wants us to be league champions. And I feel it. I feel like we’re going to be league champs.”

– senior linebacker Mark Reyes, the Titans’ leading returning tackler, reflecting on the leadership and confidence of Grim.

Supangan is a 4.0 gradepoint average student with a knack for making the right read, Grim said, but Fullard has the superior arm and feet, leaving the Titans with a tough call.

Head coach: La Te’f Grim (1st year) 2015 results: 5-5, 3-2 SJAA, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest losses: QB Keith Dosier, WR/CB Deon White, RB Terrance Ritzow Key returners: LB Mark Reyes, sr., TE/FB/WR Alex Lopez, sr., FB/LB Dennis McCrae, sr., ILB Zubair Ali, sr.

Games to watch: McNair (Oct. 7), at Franklin (Oct. 14), at Stagg (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Shotgun spread, Defense: 4-3 Area of strength: Fresh start with new coaches, re-tooling SJAA

Area of concern: Vast majority of team leaders, top performers, graduated 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Gregori, 7:15 p.m.

Sept . 2 – Cordova, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Pacheco, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Tokay, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – Lincoln, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – McNair, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Franklin, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Edison, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Bear Creek, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Stagg, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *San Joaquin Athletic Association game

By the Numbers 2,804 Former Chavez running backs Jennings (1,774 in 2014) and Ritzow (1,030 in 2015) combined for 2,804 rushing yards the past two seasons. Jennings was first-team All-Area, and Ritzow was second team.

0 Neither Supangan nor Fullard has thrown a varsity pass, nor has anybody else on the roster. Quarterback play is pivotal in the offensive-minded SJAA, and Chavez’s new field general must figure out that offense quickly.

75 Reyes posted 75 tackles as a junior. Chavez will miss Deon White (first-team All-Area cornerback) and defensive lineman Gabriel Rodriguez (eight sacks) as both graduated.

Three-headed monster Chavez may feature three different tailbacks this season, including Dennis McCrae (5-foot-10, 225-pound senior), Malik Watkins (junior) and George Robinson (6-foot, 190 sophomore).

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

SJAA: STAGG DELTA KINGS

Young, unproven team ready to test mettle Two-way star Haywood prepared for big season Stagg Delta Kings

By Bob Highfill Record Staff Writer

STOCKTON — Stagg High’s resurgence in recent years has been built on speed.

That won’t change this season, head coach Don Norton’s 12th at the helm.

Cutrell Haywood, a senior receiver, defensive back and return specialist, has D. NORTON speed to burn and athleticism to match. But surrounding Haywood is an untested, unproven group on both sides of the ball. Growing pains are imminent.

Still, Norton and his staff remain confident that a second consecutive San Joaquin Athletic Association championship and a return to the Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs are realistic aspirations.

“We’re going to be a very young, very aggressive, getafter-it team,” Norton said.

“This is going to be a team as the season goes along that will continue to get better. I love the energy these guys come out to play with. They work hard and do everything we ask them to do, so I’m very optimistic about this team this year.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH Cutrell Haywood (WR/DB/KR, 6-0, 185, senior) The Skinny: The fleet-footed

Haywood led Stagg in receptions (62), receiving yards (915) and receiving touchdowns (11) last season, working primarily with then-senior quarterback Lavante Bushnell.

Obviously, C. HAYWOOD Haywood figures prominently in the passing game again, though this season, senior Stephon Favela will be the starting quarterback.

Stagg’s Cutrell Haywood is dragged out of bounds by Chavez High’s Danny Lopez-Goodacre last season. Haywood is considered among the best two-way talents in the area this season. RECORD FILE 2015

Haywood knows he will be the focal point of opposing defenses.

“A lot of people actually have been asking me what I’m going to do, and am I worried about other teams because other people have left,” Haywood said. “Now, I’m just here to play with my team and have a good time and enjoy football, the sport that I love.”

Norton on Haywood: “We’re pretty fast and Cutrell is a big-time guy. He’s a Division I guy and if people aren’t ready to stop him, they’re going to see a lot of him catching some balls and scoring some touchdowns.”

Stephon Favela (QB, 5-8½, 150, senior) The Skinny: Favela took some

snaps behind Bushnell last season and started against St. Mary’s in the first round of the Sac-Joaquin Section Division I S. FAVELA playoffs when Bushnell wasn’t available due to an injury.

Favela went 39 of 60 for 406 yards with three touchdowns and one interception in the

Delta Kings’ 65-35 loss to the Rams. Favela said he won’t face tougher competition this season than what St. Mary's gave him in that playoff game.

“Stepping in in a first-round playoff game against a very good, top school in our state, that’s probably the best experience I could get,” Favela said.

“Being a varsity football team, it doesn’t get much better than that.”

In the offseason, Favela said he gained overall strength in the weight room, worked to improve his footwork and studied game film. He said he’s ready to lead Stagg’s spread offense. As for his small stature, Favela said, “I’ve been short my whole life. At every level I was told I was short, but I was always able to play at that level.”

Norton on Favela: “Our quarterback got a lot of reps last season. He really knows the offense, he knows where everyone is supposed to be, so I’m excited about what his upside is this year.”

Jalend Dinwiddie (LB, 6-0, 175, senior) The Skinny: The Delta Kings’

captain and three-year starter enjoys being in the middle of the action, the trenches, as he calls

them, though he likely will play outside the majority of snaps in order to utilize his speed and get after the quarterback. Dinwiddie was second on the team with 147 tackles and led the Delta Kings with 7.5 sacks last season.

With a motor in constant rev, Dinwiddie is the unabashed leader on a defense shy on size and returning talent, but blessed with J. DINWIDDIE speed.

“Even though we don’t have size, we do have speed,” he said. “That’ll help us get out to the sidelines quicker.”

Norton on Dinwiddie: “He just has a great attitude and he works hard. You just love having guys like this. The one thing we’re going to make sure is we get him somewhere, a high-academic school to play football at the next level.”

Others to watch: RB Jontu Mitchell, sr., 5-9, 148; WR/RB Lee Webb, jr., 5-6, 160; LB/WR Joel Castillo, sr., 6-1, 190; DL/ OL Timothy Omstead, jr. 5-10, 225; DE Manuel Ibarra, jr., 5-10, 190; OL Joe Atkisson, jr., 6-4, 285; DT/ILB Garonn Wilbon, jr., 5-10, 180.

Head coach: Don Norton (12th year) 2015 results: 6-5, 5-0 SJAA, lost 65-35 to St. Mary’s in Div. I playoffs Toughest losses: QB Lavante Bushnell, WR Hassani Zackery, LB Jonathan Phillips, WR/DB Michael Thompson Key returners: QB Stephon Favela, sr., WR/DB Cutrell Haywood, sr., LB Jalend Dinwiddie, sr.

Top newcomers: OL Anthony Basilio, jr., RB/LB Jalani Flowers, jr.

Games to watch: McNair (Oct. 21), at Edison (Oct. 28), Chavez (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Shotgun spread, Defense: 4-2-5 Area of strength: Experience at offensive skill positions Area of concern: Senior leaders from SJAA title run graduated

By the Numbers 16 Haywood had 16 receiving touchdowns (11) and interceptions (5) combined last season. The Delta Kings’ senior leader is one of the top two-way players in the area.

2016 Schedule Aug. 27 – Reno, 2 p.m.^ Sept. 2 – Modesto, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Laguna Creek, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – BYE Sept. 30 – Christian Brothers, 7:15 p.m.

Oct. 7 – Franklin, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Bear Creek, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – McNair, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Edison, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Chavez, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *San Joaquin Athletic Association game ^Game played at South Tahoe High

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

SJAA: BEAR CREEK BRUINS

Young team learning how to finish Coach Camp working to change group’s mindset

Bear Creek Bruins

By Bob Highfill Record Staff Writer

STOCKTON — Bear Creek coach Reggie Camp is optimistic his young team will make strides this season.

He said his players are more mature than in years past, and he hopes that translates into better results in the fourth quarter.

Reggie Camp “The thing I’ve been having a difficult (time with) here is we play great for three quarters of a game and then we kind of falter in the fourth quarter,” said Camp, the former Cal great and Cleveland Browns defensive end.

“I’m trying to change that mindset.”

Camp said the Bruins let a lot of games escape in the crucial latter stages.

“That’s where maturity comes in and these guys are a lot more mature than the past group of kids I’ve had here,” Camp said. “It’s still a work in progress. It’s a challenge.”

Bear Creek went 2-8 overall and 2-3 in the San Joaquin Athletic Association last season. The Bruins struggled to score, averaging just 9.7 points in nine games, not including a 2-0 forfeit to McNair in Week 10. Bear Creek was shut out three times and scored seven points in two other games. So, offensively, the Bruins must improve to harbor any chance at challenging for their first ever league title.

The quarterback position isn’t settled, as Camp has three contenders competing for playing time. Senior returner Adam Feingold has the upper hand, having thrown for 201 yards in five games as a junior. Justin De Mello and Daniel Vang are pushing Feingold.

Bear Creek seniors, left to right, Tre Wortham, David Deloach III, Robert Moreno and Issac Dhatt hope to make the 2016 season memorable for their team and coach Reggie Camp, center. BOB HIGHFILL/THE RECORD

Defensively, Camp said the Bruins will be aggressive with seniors in linebacker Robert Moreno, tackle David Deloach III and lineman Issac Dhatt leading the way.

“We’re putting in all the effort and the hard work,” Deloach III said.

By the Numbers 2 After losing their first six games, the Bruins won two of their final four over Edison and Franklin, finishing in fourth place in the SJAA.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

2016 Schedule

David Deloach III (DT/OG, 5-11, 234, senior) The Skinny: Deloach III had

credit for 29 tackles and eight quarterback sacks last season.

He hopes to do even more this season for a young team that needs his skill and leadership.

Camp on Deloach III: “He was all-league for us last year.

He made a ton of sacks for us and had a really outstanding junior year. We’re really excited about him returning and continuing that growth.

He’s an exceptional student, as well.”

Tre Wortham (RB/WR/SS, 5-10½, 161, senior) The Skinny: The Bruins’ do-

everything player is ready to show his array of talent this season.

“I can play any position and I work hard,” Wortham said.

Camp plans to use Wortham in tandem with Anthony Allen in the offensive backfield. Wortham had close to 200 yards of total offense and defensively, he

Head coach: Reggie Camp (6th year) 2015 results: 2-8, 2-3 SJAA, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest loss: WR/DB Darius Livingston Key returners: RB/LB Robert Moreno, sr., DB Tre Wortham, sr., DL David Deloach III, sr.

Games to watch: Tokay (Sept. 4), Stagg (Oct. 23), at McNair (Nov. 6) Schemes – Offense: Pistol, Defense: TBA Area of strength: Two-way players and quarterback experience Area of concern: Keeping up with SJAA’s skill-position players

Bear Creek’s Daniel Vang, shown throwing a pass last season against Tokay, is competing for the Bruins’ starting quarterback spot. RECORD FILE 2015

intercepted two passes as a junior.

Camp on Wortham: “Running game, we have some guys we’re going to platoon there.

We’re going to start with Tre Wortham and Anthony Allen, so those guys are going to be platooning. That’s our plan now.”

around with great character, like all of my guys. Each and every one of them has great character and they epitomize the phrase student-athlete.

They work hard in the classroom and on the field.”

Issac Dhatt (OT/DL, 6-3, 260, senior) The Skinny: Another player

with high expectations for a great senior season, Dhatt is one of the leaders on the team ers of the Bruins’ defense and and the anchor of the line on their returning leading tackler offense and defense. with 81. He was named the Camp on Dhatt: “Dhatt is team’s defensive player of the going to be a two-year starter year last season. for us on the offensive line.

Camp on Moreno: “He had a He’s gotten bigger, he’s big year as a junior. He is just a gotten stronger. I’m real superb young man all the way excited about that.”

Robert Moreno (LB, 5-9, 190, senior) The Skinny: One of the lead-

Aug. 26 – Grace Davis, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Tokay, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Weston Ranch, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Vallejo, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 23 – BYE Sept. 30 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.

Oct. 7 – Edison, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Stagg, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Franklin, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Chavez, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – McNair, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *San Joaquin Athletic Association game

QUOTE OF NOTE “We have a good team, good heart, good coaches. They teach us very well. I think we’re going to win league.”

– Two-way lineman David Deloach III

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

SJAA: MCNAIR EAGLES

New scheme draws on coach’s roots Eagles shifting from air to ground attack

McNair Eagles

By Bob Highfill Record Staff Writer

STOCKTON — If you believe the coaches and players at McNair are feeling sorry for themselves now that Derrion Grim and Osai Brown have moved on, think again.

The Eagles are grateful and proud of what they accomplished with their potent receiver and quarterback tandem last season.

But their focus is steely sharp on what lies ahead.

“We’ve been working hard all summer,” said senior linebacker Seth “Bear” Tennis, “and we’ll be ready for Franklin of Elk Grove.”

McNair opens the season on Friday at home against former Lincoln coach Mike Johnson’s Wildcats. Franklin might as well toss last season’s Eagles’ game film in the circular file.

There’s nothing meaningful to glean from it, as changes have been brewing on Coach Terry Hampton’s squad.

Hampton has size up front, a quality running back returning and an unsettled quarterback situation. So, it makes sense the Eagles plan to run the football this season.

“I like to pass, but I like to run better,” said Hampton, a Lincoln alum in his second season guiding McNair. “In my old Lincoln days, we were considered a running back high school and I want to bring that running back. When everyone’s in spread, we’re going to surprise some teams with our run game this year.”

Brown and Grim were one of the most prolific passand-catch combinations in Stockton high school football history. Brown threw for 3,383 yards and 50 touchdowns, and Grim tied the state’s all-time single-season mark with 34 touchdown receptions. The Eagles also had a big contribution from senior receiver Sean Hamilton, who had more than 1,000 yards and 14 TDs receiving, and they scored 50 or more points six times. Grim, The Record’s 2015 All-Area Player

McNair looks to revamp its offensive scheme this season, going to a running game as opposed to its high-flying aerial attack last season. From left to right are senior lineman Armando Martinez, coach Terry Hampton, senior running back/wide receiver and cornerback Austin Sith and senior linebacker Seth Tennis. BOB HIGHFILL/THE RECORD

QUOTE OF NOTE “Our main focus point this year is to just stop the little things that have been killing us. We have to play with a lot more discipline and that’s on the field and off the field in the classroom. I’d like to see them get their academics up and their grades up.

That’s going to help us build a program that we’re trying to have right now.”

McNair’s Austin Sith is tackled by Chavez’s Kwame Madave, left, and Nickolas Rosiles last season at McNair in Stockton. Sith figures to play a prominent role in the Eagles’ run game this season. RECORD FILE 2015

of the Year, enrolled in January at Nebraska, where he is expected to play slot receiver for Huskers’ coach Mike Riley.

We run block and this year, we’re way stronger — the strongest (offensive) line in Stockton, and I believe our run game could be great.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Austin Sith (RB/WR/CB, 5-6, 160, senior) The Skinny: The Eagles’ leading

Armando Martinez (OL/DL, 6-1, 290, senior) The Skinny: Martinez anchors

an offensive line that returns in tact from last season and averages 280 pounds from tackle to tackle, a unit Hampton said has gained strength in the weight room and explosiveness in the offseason.

Martinez on the experienced OL: “We have a different offense.

returning ball carrier with 573 yards and five touchdowns last season should benefit from the new offensive scheme this season. Sith averaged 7.7 yards rushing per carry and also caught 20 passes, good for third on the team.

Sith on Sith: “I feel like I’m a leader on the team and I feel as long as we have that person

— coach Terry Hampton on what he’d like to see from his program.

that’s vocal, we can have the team just right.”

Seth Tennis (LB, 6-1, 220, senior) The Skinny: Tennis had a solid

junior season in which he was third on the team with 70 tackles, including six tackles for a loss, and is this season’s returning leader in that category. Tennis will be in his fourth season as a varsity starter.

Tennis on Tennis: “Personally, it goes by fast but as a team I just want to be a leader by example and just show them just playing hard can get you somewhere because people doubted me as a player and I wanted to prove them wrong. I think I did.”

Head coach: Terry Hampton (2nd year) 2015 results: 8-3, 4-1 SJAA, lost 85-46 to Sacramento in Div. II playoffs Toughest losses: WR Derrion Grim, QB Osai Brown, WR Sean Hamilton, LB/FB Noah Faatau Key returners: RB Austin Sith, sr., LB Seth Tennis, sr., DL/OL Sammy Palefau, sr.

Top newcomers: QB Rafael Lara, so., DL/OL Jose Sandoval, jr., WR/DB Isaiah Redic, jr.

Games to watch: At Chavez (Oct. 7), at Stagg (Oct. 21), Bear Creek (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Shotgun spread, Defense: 4-3 Area of strength: Senior leaders remain on both sides of ball Area of concern: Defensive must improve, rushing attack must take shape quickly

By the Numbers 53 With the trio of Brown, Grim and Hamilton in full force, McNair averaged 53 points per game last year, which is an area singleseason record, according to Cal-Hi Sports. Replicating that output would be difficult to say the least.

2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Elk Grove-Franklin Sept. 2 – Atwater Sept. 9 – Merced Sept. 16 – Gregori Sept. 23 – Tokay Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – Chavez* Oct. 14 – Edison* Oct. 21 – Stagg* Oct. 28 – Franklin* Nov. 4 – Bear Creek* Home games in bold All games kick off at 7:15 p.m. *San Joaquin Athletic Association game

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

SJAA: EDISON VIKINGS

‘E Raid’ comes to E House

By Thomas Lawrence

Edison Vikings

Record Staff Writer

Head coach: Booker Guyton (6th year, 1st year in new tenure) 2015 results: 1-9, 1-4 SJAA, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest losses: OL/DL Frederick Elkins, WR/DB Jamahl Brown Key returners: QB Tyree Stricklen, sr., OG/DE Marcos Rodriguez, jr., DB Marcus Baker, jr.

Top newcomer: WR/KR Hassani Zackery, jr.

Games to watch: At Weston Ranch (Sept. 2), Stagg (Oct. 28), Franklin (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Air raid, Defense: 4-2-5 Area of strength: Offense rejuvenated and more experienced Area of concern: Offensive and defensive line depth

STOCKTON — Booker

Guyton knows he’s an “old-school guy” and he embraces it.

The new Edison football coach wasn’t always new at this job. Guyton was Vikings coach from 1998-2002 and pines for the return of the old ZACKERY SJAA, where all (or most) of the area large schools from Stockton, Lodi and Tracy would face off.

Though Guyton knows he’s rebuilding, and introducing the Air Raid (or, as he likes to say, “E Raid”) offense, the goals remain the same.

“You’ve got to start from the ground up and get a foundation going,” said Guyton, who most recently coached at Vacaville Christian. But, “we’re not going to be satisfied with this program until we’re playing and beating the St. Mary’s and Lincolns. It’s no knock against our league.

Our league has some strong competitors.”

Guyton has faith in defensive coordinator Elliott Burke – who was head coach the last time Edison reached a section title game, a 2003 loss to Sacramento-Grant – and offensive coordinator Mike Logan, whom Guyton coached alongside at Sacramento City College.

Tyree Stricklen, a senior captain, quarterback and cornerback, is a pivotal player for the Vikings as someone who can pass and run on offense, and create havoc on defense. He has a heck of a wide receiver to throw to in Hassani Zackery, a junior transfer from Stagg.

Edison benefits from an extra week of learning, as it has a bye for Week 0 and opens the season at 7 p.m. on Sept. 2 at Weston Ranch.

2016 Schedule Edison quarterback Tyree Stricklen looks to run against Lodi during their game on Sept. 25, 2015, at Magnasco Stadium in Stockton. RECORD FILE 2015

“We love it. Especially being new,” Guyton said.

“Everyone likes to play Week 0 but I’ve never been a proponent of Week 0. I like that extra time.”

Players to watch Tyree Stricklen (QB/CB, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Stockton Favorite NFL player: Tru-

QUOTE OF NOTE “We’re not going to be satisfied with this program until we’re playing and beating the St. Mary’s and Lincolns.”

– coach Booker Guyton, unafraid to admit his loftier goals for Edison as he takes over for a second tenure. Edison last beat one of those schools in 2003, a Sac-Joaquin Section semifinal win over St. Mary’s under Burke. Since, the Vikings have gone 0-13 against the Rams and Lincoln Trojans. Edison hasn’t beaten Lincoln in at least 16 years.

maine Johnson Favorite NFL team: Philadel-

phia Eagles Motivation: Knowing that it’s possible for me to be successful in any way, and how I can impact people’s lives in a positive way.

Hassani Zackery (WR/KR, junior) Age: 15, Birthplace: Stockton Favorite NFL player: DeSean

Jackson Favorite NFL team: Philadel-

phia Eagles Motivation: “My family,

because we’re a big family and we don’t have money, so I just want to work hard and make them proud, go to college and hopefully to the NFL so I can take care of my family.”

Did you know?

Guyton received support from both Lavelle Hawkins, his former wide receiver at Edison who played in the NFL and CFL, and Darren Arbet, who played for the late Charles Washington at Edison and has four ArenaBowl championships coaching the San Jose SaberCats. Both vouched for him during Edison’s hiring process.

A Tru talent Trumaine Johnson, one of the Los Angeles Rams’ starting cornerbacks, is a native of Stockton and product of Edison High. Johnson, who graduated in 2008, played for Burke.

Johnson has 177 career tackles and 15 interceptions with the Rams, and his seven interceptions last season were tied for third in the NFL.

Aug. 26 – BYE Sept. 2 – Weston Ranch, 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Beyer, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Heritage, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 30 – Pacheco, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 7 – Bear Creek, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – McNair, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Chavez, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Stagg, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Franklin, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *San Joaquin Athletic Association game

By the Numbers 14 It’s been 14 years since Edison and Guyton parted ways, after the Vikings were found guilty of nine section and league rules violations, nullifying a 9-1 season.

Guyton returns to his alma mater eager to win with “south Stockton kids.”

757 Edison’s offense improved the moment Zackery joined the E Raid, after he racked up an impressive 757 yards as a Stagg sophomore.

5 The Vikings have a freshman program for the first time in five years. And Edison is seeking its first winning season in three years, since Andre Horace guided the Vikings to a 7-4 mark in 2013.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

SJAA: FRANKLIN YELLOWJACKETS

Cultural change taking shape

By Thomas Lawrence

By the Numbers

Record Staff Writer

STOCKTON — Damion Pursley

has seen the Yellowjackets at their most vulnerable. Bickering. Arguing. Complaining.

Basically, the antithesis of winning football.

But that’s changed, a year into the Larry PURSLEY Thompson coaching era, Franklin's senior wide receiver said.

“A year ago, we were all just bad-tempered. We had a lot of cancers on the team,” said Pursley, who put up 30 catches for 662 yards and seven touchdowns in a run-heavy, I-formation offense last season. “Bad attitudes. Bad-mouthing the coaches.

“This year, we’ve got mature kids. We’re trying to ball out this season.”

That I-formation is now a shotgun spread, as Thompson and company try to utilize the speed of their receivers like Pursley and fellow senior Stevie Thompson. Senior leader Julian Serrano returns for his first full year at starting quarterback.

Serrano and his mates know how wide-open the SJAA is – after a slew of skill-position stars from Stagg, McNair and Chavez graduated – and it gives them a purpose: chasing a league banner.

“Of course it fires us up,” said Serrano, who also plays free safety. “It’s been two years on varsity now, it’s our last one, and we’ve got to make it count.”

Larry Thompson, a former San Jose State and arena league defensive back, sees new defensive leaders emerging. That includes juniors in cornerback Joshua Hendon and linebacker Alex Tacas. Offensive lineman Mark Jimenez (6-2, 220pound senior) is “a beast.”

Franklin quarterback Julian Serrano, right, throws against McNair during their San Joaquin Athletic Association game on Oct. 9, 2015, at McNair High in Stockton. RECORD FILE 2015

“Our camaraderie. It’s the first time we’ve been here and seen a complete team,” Larry Thompson said. “Guys not bickering with each other and fussing with each other, everybody’s picking each other up.”

Players to watch Damion Pursley (WR/CB, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Stockton Favorite NFL player: DeAndre

Hopkins Favorite NFL team: San Fran-

cisco 49ers Motivation: My struggle, because I don’t want to keep living like this, I have to get out and go get it myself.

Julian Serrano (QB/FS, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Stockton Favorite NFL player: Russell

Wilson Favorite NFL team: Oakland

Raiders Motivation: “Seeing my family happy while I’m playing. My team hasn’t had the best records, but my family has always been there to cheer me on.”

9 It’s been nine years now since the recruiting scandal that rocked Franklin under former coach, the late Tom Verner. From 2008-2015, Franklin’s won-loss record was 12-66, winning three games once, two games twice and one game five separate times. Thompson is the fourth coach in that stretch, following Carlos Franco (2008-2011), Scott Benham (4-16) and Gregg Marsh (1-9).

5 The jersey No. 5, according to La Te’f Grim, the former Yellowjackets wide receiver from the late ’90s who’s now Chavez’s head coach, was once something special in Franklin lore.

Grim wore it, as did Chris Cash, the former NFL defensive back. Who’ll wear that number this year? Yet to be determined.

NFL alumnus Franklin Yellowjackets Head coach: Larry Thompson (2nd year) 2015 results: 1-9, 0-5 SJAA, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest losses: RB/WR Jovon Woods, DL Denzel Brown Key returners: QB/LB Julian Serrano, sr., WR/CB Damion Pursley, sr.

Games to watch: at Stagg (Oct. 7), Chavez (Oct. 14), at Edison (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Shotgun spread, Defense: 4-3 Area of Strength: Talented, experienced secondary, receiving corps Area of Concern: Offensive line learning new schematics 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Linden, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 1 – Grace Davis (at Downey), 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Liberty Ranch, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Florin, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – BYE Sept. 30 – Rosemont, 7:15 p.m.

Oct. 7 – Stagg, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Chavez, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Bear Creek, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – McNair, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Edison, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *San Joaquin Athletic Association game

Webster Slaughter Slaughter, another wide receiver who’s a product of “Wideout City,” is one of the top NFL players in the history of Stockton and San Joaquin County. The former Yellowjacket played 12 seasons in the league – half of which came with the Cleveland Browns – making 563 catches for 8,111 yards, with 44 touchdowns. Slaughter, 51, made two Pro Bowls and is No. 86 all-time in receiving yards.

A familiar face The last two Chavez head coaches have been Franklin High grads. From 2010-2015, it was Delta College linebackers coach John Ward. Now, it’s La Te’f Grim, a former Franklin star wide receiver who went on to dominate at Pitt. Franklin hosts Chavez at 7:15 p.m. on Oct. 14.

9

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

TCAL: ST. MARY'S RAMS

Championship dreams Experienced group has lofty aspirations, expectations

By Thomas Lawrence Record Staff Writer

By the Numbers

STOCKTON — The five have fought together. The five have bled together.

The five have had their hearts broken together.

Now, the quintet of three-year St. Mary’s players want to celebrate a Sac-Joaquin Section championship together.

Seniors Popo Aumavae (two-way lineman), Jarett Carl (offensive line), Keaton Hampton (wide receiver), Mikie Prefling (offensive line) and Dewey Cotton (wide receiver) were sophomores on varsity when the Rams lost a brutal 21-14 section championship game to Sacramento-Grant in December 2014. Last year, St. Mary’s had juggernaut Folsom on the ropes – leading by two touchdowns twice – before succumbing to a torrid comeback.

Cotton – who scored what would’ve been a game-changing TD in the Grant game that was called no-good, but proven legitimate by photos – is confident it’s their turn.

“We have all the reason to go all the way to state this year. We have all of that fire from the Grant game, from Folsom. It’s time for us,” said Cotton, who’s racked up 92 catches for 1,463 yards and 13 touchdowns in his career.

“We know it is.”

Aumavae is the Rams’ blue-chip prospect, with a smorgasbord of offers including Oregon, USC, UCLA, Ole Miss and Michigan. He’s being recruited as an offensive lineman, but St. Mary’s defensive line is formidable, headlined by seniors Aumavae, Cole Norgaard, Jordan Stinhilver and Keller Salmon. All-Area safety David Ford lurks in the secondary, fresh off a junior season with 111 tackles.

“It’s been a good run with those kids,” Franks said of the five three-year players. “We’ve spent so many hours together over the years… We’ve been through enough together, we know to trust each other.”

Franks is happy to have a quarterback with varsity experience in his secondyear starter Jake Dunniway. That, and Dunniway’s arsenal of weapons (junior Marcus Aponte, Cotton and Hampton as receivers and junior Dusty Frampton at tailback) is almost entirely comprised of veterans.

“Everybody knows what they’re doing. It’s fine-tuning,” Dunniway said.

21 Aumavae morphed from a regional recruit to a national recruit this offseason, as his 21 Division I offers now include Michigan, Mississippi and Pac-12 powers like Oregon, UCLA and USC. 7 St. Mary’s last two seasons have both been heartbreaking one-touchdown (7-point) defeats: 21-14 to Grant and 56-49 at Folsom.

2,311 The wide receiver trio of Cotton, Hampton and Aponte combined for 2,311 receiving yards last autumn, not to mention 23 touchdowns.

NFL alumnus St. Mary’s quarterback Jake Dunniway looks to past during a Sac-Joaquin Section Division I semifinal loss on Nov. 27, 2015, at Folsom High. RECORD FILE 2015

QUOTE OF NOTE “We have all the reason to go all the way to state this year. We have all of that fire from the Grant game, from Folsom. It’s time for us. We know it is.”

– senior wide receiver Dewey Cotton, reflecting on the Rams’ playoff heartbreak from the past two seasons.

ST. MARY’S RAMS Head coach: Tony Franks (18th year, 15th consecutive year) 2015 results: 10-3, 5-0 TCAL, lost 56-49 to Folsom in Div. I semis Toughest losses: LB Michael Relloque, RB Brandon Zaunbrecher, CB Brandon Sanders Key returners: OL/DL Popo Aumavae, sr., WR/KR Dewey Cotton, sr., QB Jake Dunniway, sr., WR Keaton Hampton, sr., DL Cole Norgaard, sr., RB Dusty Frampton, jr.

Top newcomer: SS/RB Tre Jenkins, jr.

Games to watch: At Central Catholic (Sept. 9), at St. John Bosco (Sept. 23), Lincoln (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Shotgun pistol, Defense: “Tipton tilt” Area of Strength: Returning QB and

talented, experienced offense Area of Concern: New leaders in secondary, linebacker corps 2016 Schedule Aug. 27 – Serra, 1 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Cardinal Newman, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Central Catholic, 7 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Cosumnes Oaks, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – St. John Bosco (Whittier College), 7 p.m.

Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – Tokay, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – West, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Tracy, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Lincoln, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *Tri-City Athletic League game

Doug Martin Martin, a 2007 St. Mary’s graduate, went on to play at Boise State in college, and is the starting tailback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. He compiled his second 1,000yard rushing season and earned a trip to his second Pro Bowl last fall, running for 1,402 yards with six touchdowns. Martin has 3,806 yards and 20 touchdowns as he enters the fifth year of his career.

Players to watch Dewey Cotton (WR, 5-5, 155, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Stockton Favorite NFL player: Tavon Austin Favorite NFL team: San Francisco 49ers Motivation: “Being provided with the ability to inspire others who are short and play big man sports.”

Jake Dunniway (QB, 6-2, 190, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Pleasanton Favorite NFL player: Tom Brady Favorite NFL team: New England Patriots Motivation: Making my family proud, helping my teammates succeed and proving to myself I can do things others say I can’t.

Popo Aumavae (OL/DL, 6-4, 300, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Tacoma, Wash.

Favorite NFL player: Aaron Donald Favorite NFL team: San Francisco 49ers Motivation: “Taking care of my family and giving back.”

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

TCAL: TRACY BULLDOGS

’Dogs ready to rise again

By Thomas Lawrence

Tracy Bulldogs

Record Staff Writer

TRACY — In an age of finesse football, Tracy is comfortable in its own skin, and being an oldschool institution in a shotgun spread world.

And that offensive approach often leaves opponents distinctly uncomfortable.

The Bulldogs, purveyors of the ALVARADO run-heavy veer offense, have an experienced quarterback who happily takes the punishment of plunging into the line and grinding forward. Even for SPLAN two or three yards at a time.

That man is Josh Alvarado, a 15-year-old junior, and he has an established senior in front of him in returning All-Area center Dominic Splan.

“He’s a play-maker,” Bulldogs coach Matt Shrout said of Alvarado. “He’s a gamer.”

Alvarado doesn’t mind the day-after pain of being a veer quarterback. Even against the reigning TCAL champions, and Bay Area power ConcordClayton Valley Charter.

“There’s bumps and bruises around my whole body,” Alvarado said, on waking up for Saturday mornings in the fall,

Tracy quarterback Josh Alvarado, center, isn’t afraid to run the ball and take some hits in the Bulldogs’ veer offense. RECORD FILE 2015

“especially after St. Mary’s and Clayton Valley.”

Even against the reigning TCAL champions, St. Mary’s, for the Bulldogs to contend in the TCAL, they must learn quickly, Shrout said. Especially when St. Mary’s and Lincoln are the reigning champion and runner-up, and return several superb players. The good news for Tracy is that it hosts both of those games – St. Mary’s on Oct. 21 and Lincoln on Oct. 28.

“They’re going to have to grow up fast,” Shrout said. “We only start four or five seniors.

They’re going to have to gel and get good right away.”

Player to watch Dominic Splan (C, 6-0, 255, senior)

By the Numbers 14 Tracy hopes to have Alvarado starting for a full season. Last year, Alvarado had to sit out three games because he was 14 years old, and thus wasn’t varsityeligible in the Sac-Joaquin Section until he turned 15.

Age: 17, Birthplace: Hayward Favorite NFL player: NaVorro

Bowman Favorite NFL team: San Francisco

49ers Motivation: “My mom and everything that she does and goes through for me as a single mother.”

Head coach: Matt Shrout (7th year) 2015 results: 5-5, 3-2 TCAL, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest losses: FB Courtney “C.J.” Hawkins, LB Nate Turner, LB Conner Johnson Key returners: QB Josh Alvarado, jr., OL Dominic Splan, sr., LB/DL Clayton Borges, sr., LB/RB Kristien Reyes, jr.

Top newcomer: FB Mason Sarsfield, so.

Biggest games: St. Mary’s (Oct. 21), Lincoln (Oct. 28), at West (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Veer, Defense: 4-4 Area of Strength: Running game

strong, opponents often flustered by it Area of Concern: Inexperience, little time to “grow up” for linemen, newcomers 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – San Ramon Valley Sept. 2 – Freedom Sept. 9 – Turlock Sept. 16 – Kimball Sept. 23 – Liberty Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – Lodi* Oct. 14 – Tokay* Oct. 21 – St. Mary’s* Oct. 28 – Lincoln* Nov. 4 – West* Home games in bold All games kick off at 7:15 p.m. *Tri-City Athletic League game

QUOTE OF NOTE “That’s one of the bad things about losing summer camps. We don’t know who we are… You’re going to give a sophomore kid 10 days to get ready for a varsity season? That’s not enough.”

– coach Matt Shrout, talking about the statewide elimination of summertime contact camps, and the limiting of practicing with pads on, and practicing with full contact. There are 18 days between the official first day of practice (Aug. 8) and the first game (Aug. 26). Not to mention, 16 days between the first day of pads (Aug. 10) and the Week 0 opener.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

13

TCAL: WEST WOLF PACK

Coach preaches ‘good fundamental football’

By Scott Linesburgh

West Wolf Pack

Record Staff Writer

TRACY — There’s no mystery

about what you’ll see from West on the football field.

The Wolf Pack likes to come right at you, pounding the ball with a rugged running game. And that won’t change in head coach Steve Anastasio’s third season in charge.

“Obviously we’re going to live by the run, and mix in the pass where we can,” Anastasio said. “But we also want to be smart and physical.”

West must rebuild its offensive and defensive lines to succeed, and find a way to replace star running back Marcel Dancy, who was the TCAL co-offensive player of the year last season.

Dancy will be missed, but the Wolf Pack believes it has found a suitable replacement in junior Jonah Gaotaote, a 6-foot-2, 225-pound fullback who also will play linebacker.

“He played for us as a sophomore last year and proved how good he can be,” Anastasio said. “He’s got great speed.

He’ll be a player to watch.”

The West offense will be in the hands of senior quarterback Jake Hiltachk, who threw just one pass last season.

Player to watch James Jones (TE/DE, 6-3, 185, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Phoenix,

Arizona Favorite NFL player: Rob

West’s, from left, Jonah Gaotaote, Dion Collier and Jaquez Collins take in the national anthem with their teammates before a Tri-City Athletic League game against Lodi in October 2015 at West High in Tracy. Gaotaote and Collins are both back for the Wolf Pack. RECORD FILE 2015

Notable alumnus

By the Numbers

Amini Silatolu The current offensive guard for the Chicago Bears remains the only West graduate (2007) to make it to the NFL. After his time with the Wolf Pack, he spent two seasons at Delta College before going to Midwestern State where he garnered the attention of NFL scouts. He was drafted in the second round by Carolina in 2012, playing 34 games through 2015. Silatolu was seeing starting time with the eventual NFC champion Panthers before sustaining a season-ending injury.

This offseason he signed with the Bears, and was recently activated.

2,300 West has a near impossible task in replacing Dancy’s production, after he delivered 2,300 all-purpose yards for the Wolf Pack last fall, with 30 total touchdowns (25 rushing, three receiving, one interception return, one kick return).

Gronkowski Favorite NFL team: Oakland

Raiders Motivation: “I always have the mindset to be the best at whatever I do whether

it’s baseball, football and academics.”

Head coach: Steve Anastasio (3rd year) 2015 results: 6-5, 2-3 TCAL, lost 49-21 to Antelope in Div. II playoffs Toughest losses: RB/DB Marcel Dancy, RB/DB Christian Velasco, RB/DB Justin Velasco, OL/DL Francisco Jimenez Key returners: LB/FB Jonah Gaotaote, jr., RB/DB Emmanuel Turner, sr., TE/DE James Jones, sr.

Top newcomers: LB/RB Ruben Murrillo, jr., OG/LB Sione Bourke, jr., RB/LB Thomas Walters, jr., RB/LB Ron McFarland, jr.

Biggest games: At Kimball (Sept. 2), Sheldon (Sept. 9), at Tracy (Nov. 6)

Schemes – Offense: Shotgun Wing-T, Defense: 4-4 Area of strength: Team speed, experienced fullback leading running game Area of concern: Offensive and defensive lines 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Lathrop, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Kimball, 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Sheldon, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – East Union, 7 p.m.

Sept. 23 – Central Valley, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – Lincoln, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – St. Mary’s, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Tokay, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Tracy, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *Tri-City Athletic League game

QUOTE TO NOTE “We want to be smart team that plays good fundamental football. Just good, tough football. And I think we have the ability to do that.”

– coach Steve Anastasio when asked about his team’s outlook for the 2016 season.

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

TCAL: LINCOLN TROJANS

New era dawns for red, silver and black

By Thomas Lawrence

Lincoln Trojans

Record Staff Writer

STOCKTON — Anthony

Martinez’s welcome to the varsity football coaching fraternity begins with facing the premier running back in the nation.

Lincoln travels to Antioch, and must try and stifle – no one really contains him – Alabama commit and senior Najee Harris: Cal-Hi Sports’ reigning Mr. Football.

Martinez believes Lincoln’s defense is underrated and plans to instill a higher level of physicality this autumn.

The Trojans saw Harris over the summer in passing tournaments, which Martinez believes only helps.

“There will be 11 guys on him every time he touches the ball,” Martinez said.

Martinez, who spent the past six years in Lincoln’s freshmen and sophomore ranks, is using key twoway players. Seniors Will George (6-foot-4, 270 pounds) and Ryan Williams (6-3, 230) are pivotal on both lines, and junior Royal Sitagata (6-2, 350) is anchoring the defensive front. Throw in senior cornerback Isaiah Downes, who had seven interceptions last season, and linebackers Taylor Dickson and Marcelino Mendoza, and Martinez is confident.

Yet, his forte is an up-tempo, shotgun spread offense, one which was slowly implemented last year as Martinez was offensive coordinator under head coach Brian Gray.

Now, seniors in quarterback Aaron Thomas, tight end Miquan Maxey and wide receiver Izaiah Celestine are well-versed in the attack.

“It’s really the same receiving corps from last year,” Thomas said. “That chemistry is there.”

Players to watch Aaron Thomas (QB, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Stockton

Lincoln quarterback Aaron Thomas, left, fends off St. Mary’s defenders during their Tri-City Athletic League game on Nov. 6, 2015, at Spanos Stadium in Stockton. CLIFFORD OTO/RECORD FILE 2015

Like the old SJAA Lincoln hosts Chavez on Sept. 23, in a matchup of former San Joaquin Athletic Association foes. It’s extra-personal this time, as first-year Titans coach La Te’f Grim was an assistant at Lincoln in 2013 under Gray, and his son Derrion Grim (now a Nebraska wide receiver) attended Lincoln before transferring to McNair. Lincoln is 8-0 alltime against Chavez.

Lincoln cornerback Isaiah Downes, right, breaks up a pass intended for St. Mary’s wide receiver Dewey Cotton. CLIFFORD OTO/THE RECORD

NFL alumnus Brandin Cooks Cooks, a former Oregon State Beavers wide receiver and winner of the Biletnikoff Award, is entering his third season with the New Orleans Saints. Certainly, the speedy Cooks has enjoyed working with former NFL MVP and Super Bowl-winning quarterback Drew Brees.

In two seasons, Cooks has 137 receptions for 1,688 yards and 12 touchdowns. Cooks returns to Northern California this season, as the San Francisco 49ers host the Saints at 1:05 p.m. on Nov. 6 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

Favorite NFL player: Cam

Newton Motivation: Knowing I have a

chance to get my family out

Davis fights on USC senior Justin Davis, who played with Cooks for Lincoln in 2010, might work his way into the group of Pac-12 offensive stars and up the NFL draft mock draft boards.

As a junior, Davis tallied 902 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, as well as 189 receiving yards. He’s got 1,858 rushing yards with the Trojans, as he’s seen playing time in all three of his collegiate seasons. If Davis could produce a 1,000-yard season, he’d overtake No. 10 Sultan McCullough (2,800) and No. 9 Fred Crutcher (2,815) on USC’s all-time rushing list.

of Stockton.

Miquan Maxey (TE/DE, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Martinez Favorite NFL team: New

Orleans Saints Favorite NFL player: Jimmy

Graham Motivation: “My grandmother.”

Head coach: Anthony Martinez (1st year) 2015 results: 6-5, 4-1 TCAL, lost 62-27 to Cosumnes Oaks in Div. I playoffs Toughest losses: RB Ronald “June” Walker, DB/WR Cameron Crump, OL Joseph Townsell, DL Rodney Jones Key returners: QB Aaron Thomas, Sr., DB/WR Isaiah Downes, Sr., TE/LB Miquan Maxey, Sr., WR Izaiah Celestine, Sr., OL/DL Ryan Williams, Sr. Top newcomers: WR Merle Bass, RB/LB R.J. Davis Games to watch: At Antioch (Aug. 26), at Tracy (Oct. 28), at St. Mary’s (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Air raid, Defense: Bear/4-3 Area of strength: Experienced, multi-faceted passing attack Area of concern: Running game with new tailbacks, blockers 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Antioch, 7 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Pitman, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Elk Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Downey, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – Chavez, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – West, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Tokay, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Tracy, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – St. Mary’s, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *Tri-City Athletic League game

QUOTE OF NOTE “I love the feeling.

We feel like we are underdogs this season. St. Mary’s is a very good football team, and we are going to give them everything they can handle.”

– coach Anthony Martinez, commenting on the Trojans’ role in the TCAL and within their rivalry with the Rams.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

15

TCAL: LODI FLAMES

Learning curve awaits new leaders Coach: ‘I’m not lowering expectations’

By Scott Linesburgh Record Staff Writer

LODI — Youthful enthusiasm will be Lodi’s best weapon this season in the always tough Tri-City Athletic League.

The Flames are very young, having graduated 28 seniors from last year’s squad, and only five of the 10 returning seniors enjoyed what could be considered significant playing time.

Lodi definitely has a learning curve, but its coaching staff has liked what it has seen in practice.

“I guess the best way to describe us is young and enthusiastic,” Lodi head coach Robert Sperling said.

“They are excited and they have caught on quick. They kind of had to catch on quick.”

Despite the inexperience, Sperling thinks Lodi could surprise some of the teams in the area.

“I’m not lowering expectations. I expect them to compete,” Sperling said. “We want to compete for four quarters, and we don’t want to get blown out. A winning record would be huge for this team.”

To have success, the Flames will have to rebuild each asset of their game. A key player will be running back Cole

QUOTE OF NOTE

Lodi Flames

“We’re going to learn together. As long as play hard, play together and don’t make the big mistakes, I think we’ll have a good year.”

Head coach: Robert Sperling (4th year) 2015 results: 3-7, 1-4 TCAL, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest losses: QB/DL Matt Meehleis, RB/DL Kade Piazza, WR/DB Gavin Fabian Key returner: RB/DB Cole Carouba, sr.

Top newcomer: S/RB Trey Reese, jr.

Biggest games: Tracy (Oct. 7), at St. Mary’s (Oct. 28), Tokay (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Wing-T, Defense: 4-3 Area of Strength: Running back experience Area of Concern: Top playmakers on both sides graduated 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – BYE Sept. 2 – Sonora, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Sierra, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Stagg, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – Edison, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 30 – Bear Creek, 7:15 p.m.

Oct. 7 – Tracy, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Lincoln, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – West, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – St. Mary’s, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Tokay, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold *Tri-City Athletic League game All Lodi and Tokay home games at the Grape Bowl

– senior middle linebacker Austin Mason on what the young Flames need to do to have a successful 2016.

Carouba, who boasts the most varsity experience on the team.

“He’s a third-year player, having come up as a sophomore,” Sperling said. “He will be a very valuable player for us.”

Players to watch Cole Carouba (RB/S, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Lodi Favorite NFL player: Tyrann

Mathieu Favorite NFL team: San Fran-

cisco 49ers Motivation: To bring my best every time and reach my potential.

Trey Reese (S/RB, junior) Age: 16, Birthplace: Lodi Favorite NFL player: Josh

Norman Favorite NFL team: Tennessee

Titans Motivation: “People doubting me motivates me. If you doubt me, it just makes me work harder.”

Lodi senior Cole Carouba, left, is one of the few returners on the Flames for the 2016 season. Carouba is key on both sides of the ball for fourth-year coach Robert Sperling. RECORD FILE 2015

By the Numbers 2010 The Flames are seeking their first winning season since 2010.

10 The number of returning seniors on a young, rebuilding Lodi team.

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

TCAL: TOKAY TIGERS

Striving for physical toughness

By Scott Linesburgh

Tokay Tigers

Record Staff Writer

LODI — Michael Holst hopes

this is a tough season for the Tokay Tigers.

To succeed, the secondyear head coach believes his team will have to be tough and physical on the offensive and defensive lines.

“Physical.

That’s the word that HOLST keeps coming to mind,” Holst said. “We’re hoping that we’re physical up front. We’re returning a lot of experienced players on our line, and we’re that combined with some quality new players coming up will help.”

Holst will need the Tigers to step up on both lines if they are to have a chance to return to the playoffs in the ultra-competitive Tri-City Athletic League. Lineman Zach Fleming, who played varsity as a sophomore, will help lead the way along with junior Jordan Godina, senior middle linebacker Jared Zermeno and multi-talented junior Quinten Lynch, who will likely see time as a running back, receiver and free safety.

Tokay came into training camp with a strong battle at the QB position between juniors Daniel Garlick and Ralph Martinez. Both have impressed their head coach.

“They’ve both done very well in the early going,” Holst said.

Whoever steps in at QB, the Tigers may not be as pass-happy as they have been at times in the past. Holst is hoping to establish the running game first, and build from there.

Tokay High Varsity team at the start of the game at the Franklin vs Tokay High School football game held at Franklin High School in Stockton. RECORD FILE 2015

By the Numbers

Tokay senior Jared Zermeno, center, was the team’s starting quarterback in 2015. Now, he’ll focus on being a linebacker and tight end for the Tigers.

RECORD FILE 2015

Favorite college team: Navy Motivation: I just love to com-

pete and help the team. That’s what motivates me. The team is everything.

Sahal Tufail (OL/DL, 5-9, 200, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Lodi Favorite NFL player: NaVorro

Bowman Favorite NFL team: San Fran-

Players to watch Jared Zermeno (MLB/TE, 6-2, 225, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Pocatello,

Idaho Favorite player: Former Navy QB Keenan Reynolds

5 After a promising, 3-2 preseason campaign, Tokay labored through the TriCity Athletic League last autumn, dropping all five games – including the finale to rival Lodi.

1.5 miles The distance between Tokay and its longtime rival Lodi, if you travel from Tokay down Ham Lane and make a left turn on to Lodi Avenue.

cisco 49ers Motivation: “My parents.

They always taught me to do better in life. Hopefully one day I can buy them a house and give them a good life, as they have always given me a good life.”

NFL alumni Julius Thomas The 2006 graduate played only his freshman year for the Tigers, but went on to fame in the NFL. He is currently a tight end for the Jacksonville Jaguars and went to a Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos in 2014. Thomas was a basketball standout for Tokay and helped Portland State make it to the NCAA Tournament. In his senior year in college he returned to the football field and was impressive enough to get drafted by the Broncos in the fourth round of the 2011 NFL Draft.

Reagan Maui’a The native of American Samoa graduated from Tokay in 2002 and enjoyed a five-year career in the NFL from 2007-2012 as a fullback. He played at the University of Hawaii and was a sixth round (181st overall) pick for the Miami Dolphins in 2007. He also played with the Cincinnati Bengals and Arizona Cardinals.

Head coach: Michael Holst (2nd year) 2015 results: 3-7, 0-5 TCAL, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest losses: FS/ LB Nick Arnaiz, WR/CB Nate McAlister Key returners: MLB/TE Jared Zermeno, sr., WR Wayne Coberly III, jr., DL Zach Fleming, jr.

Top newcomers: RB Cory Glasgow, jr., QB/FS Ralph Martinez, jr., QB Daniel Garlick, jr. RB/WR/FS Quinten Lynch, sr.

Games to watch: At St. Mary’s (Oct. 7), at Lincoln (Oct. 21), at Lodi (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Pistol/ spread option, Defense: 4-2-5 Area of Strength: Offensive line experience, skill-position depth Area of Concern: Lack of overall experience, new quarterback learning 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Heritage, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Bear Creek, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Downey, 7 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Chavez, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – McNair, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – St. Mary’s, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Tracy, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Lincoln, 7:15 p.m.* Oct. 28 – West, 7:15 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.* Home games in bold All Lodi and Tokay home games at the Grape Bowl *Tri-City Athletic League game

QUOTE OF NOTE “It always depends on kids and what you can do best. We want to strive to be physical and control the ball.

That’s what we want to hang our hat on.”

– coach Michael Holst discussing whether the Tigers will throw the ball as much as they have in the past.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

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VOL: MANTECA BUFFALOES

Winning not enough for Buffs

By Thomas Lawrence

Manteca Buffaloes

Record Staff Writer

MANTECA — “Eight Is

Enough” is a catchy name for a TV series. But nine is not enough in the Buffaloes’ universe.

That’s what happens when you’re part of the nearcentury old Manteca football program, which has won three Sac-Joaquin Section banners under 15th-year coach Eric Reis.

So the past two years, when the Buffaloes won nine games and reached the section quarterfinals each time, it wasn’t satisfactory.

Under Reis, a championship mindset has taken hold throughout the 21st century.

Manteca hopes that, with veterans across the roster, that’ll change. The word “payback” comes to mind: “It’s very much on our minds, every second we’re out here,” senior linebacker and fullback James Thomas said, reflecting on the chance to play defending VOL champion Modesto-Central Catholic and runner-up Oakdale.

“We’re ready to go, and get payback.”

Sweet revenge?

Manteca is seeking its first VOL banner since 2013, when it was a touchdown away from winning a NorCal championship in a gut-wrenching loss to Redding-Enterprise.

Central Catholic and Oakdale graduated many of their key players including quarterbacks Hunter Petlansky and Adam Olsen.

Manteca has an experienced quarterback in junior Gino Campiotti, a seasoned line in front of him and a defense with a mean streak.

Guss Schmiedt’s time capsule

In an area of synthetic turf and shiny, tall, yellow goal posts, the Buffaloes’ home of Guss Schmiedt Field stands alone as a San Joaquin County slice of Americana.

The field, which has a

Manteca quarterback Gino Campiotti, left, throws against Sacramento-Inderkum while lineman Kyle Reis, center, blocks, during their Sac-Joaquin Section Division III quarterfinal on Nov. 20, 2015, in Sacramento. RECORD FILE 2015

well-kept natural surface, also features the old-school white, “H”-shaped goal posts. Roll on, indeed.

Players to watch Gino Campiotti (QB/S, junior) Age: 16, Birthplace: Modesto Favorite NFL player: Tom

Brady Favorite NFL team:

Philadelphia Eagles Motivation: The love of the game, there’s nothing I’d rather do than play football.

I just want a (playoff) run, something that goes down in Manteca High history.

Jose Garcia (WR, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace:

Manteca

4 Manteca has won four section championships in its history: three under Reis (2005, 2006 and 2013) and one under the late Joe Miller (2001) who died earlier this summer after a four-year battle with lung cancer.

1923 The Buffaloes are entering their 94th year of high school football. Manteca opened in 1920, players and coaches began pulling weeds and readying the field in 1922 and they opened play in 1923. The Buffaloes won their first-ever game against Hilmar on Oct. 13, 1923: 20-6. The Manteca-Oakdale rivalry has been going since 1923, and the Mustangs own a 51-40-4 record against the Buffaloes according to Cal-Hi Sports. When current coaches in Oakdale’s Trent Merzon and Manteca’s Reis, former Delta College teammates, go head-to-head, the Mustangs have won 10 of 14. Manteca, though, gets home field this year.

Notable alumnus

Favorite NFL player: Tavon

Austin Favorite NFL team: San

Francisco 49ers

By the Numbers

GARCIA

Motivation: “My family.

My uncle (Ruben Cedano) played at Manteca High and won back-to-back section championships. That’s a big motivation to me.”

Reggie Bell A Manteca product and wide receiver, Bell played his college ball at San Diego, and signed with the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent in 2015. While he didn’t make the regular-season roster, he’s getting his chance again with the New Orleans Saints. Should he make it, he’ll be playing alongside a fellow San Joaquin County product in Brandin Cooks, the Lincoln alumnus and former Oregon State wide receiver. Bell caught a touchdown pass in New Orleans’ preseason opener at the New England Patriots.

Head coach: Eric Reis (15th year) 2015 results: 9-3, 5-2 VOL, lost 43-18 to Inderkum in Div. III quarterfinals Toughest losses: LB/FB Darrion Kitson, WR/DB Ronaldo Tijero, LB/RB Marcus Rivas Key returners: WR Jose Garcia, sr., QB/S Gino Campiotti, jr., OL Kyle Reis, jr., LB/FB Ferrin Manuleleua, jr., RB/CB Kameron Beamon, sr., LB/ RB James Thomas, sr., LB/FB Devyn Gonzales, sr.

Top newcomers: WR/DB Matt Ender, jr., WR Presley Keltner, jr., QB/DB Kyle Rachels, jr.

Games to watch: Sierra (Oct. 7), at Central Catholic (Oct. 14), Oakdale (Oct. 28) Schemes – Offense: Multiple formations, Defense: 3-4 Area of strength: Talented junior class takes reins in competitive VOL Area of concern: Depth after first unit, secondary inexperience 2016 Schedule Aug. 27 – Buhach Colony Sept. 3 – Christian Brothers Sept. 9 – Enochs Sept. 16 – BYE Sept. 23 – Kimball* Sept. 30 – Weston Ranch* Oct. 7 – Sierra* Oct. 14 – Central Catholic* Oct. 21 – Lathrop* Oct. 28 – Oakdale* Nov. 4 – East Union* All games start at 7 p.m.

Home games in bold *Valley Oak League game

QUOTE OF NOTE “I was uncomfortable, looking up and seeing how much bigger, older and more experienced everyone else was. Now, I have a year under my belt that a lot of people don’t. I feel way more comfortable.”

– quarterback Gino Campiotti, on the transition from being a sophomore quarterback on varsity to the man he is entering 2016.

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

VOL: WESTON RANCH COUGARS

Success starts up front with ‘big nasties’

By Bob Highfill

2016 Schedule

Record Staff Writer

Aug. 26 – Ceres, 7 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Edison, 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Bear Creek, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – BYE Sept. 23 – Central Catholic, 7 p.m.* Sept. 30 – Manteca, 7 p.m.* Oct. 7 – East Union, 7 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Lathrop, 7 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Oakdale, 7 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Kimball, 7 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Sierra, 7 p.m.* Home games in bold *Valley Oak League game

STOCKTON— Weston Ranch

coach Seth Davis points to the offensive linemen practicing.

“Those are the dudes,” Davis said.

In order to survive in the Valley Oak League, it takes physical and mental toughness. “The big nasties,” senior left offensive tackle Marsalys Austin’s nickname for the group, could spell the difference between the Cougars reaching the postseason or not.

Last season, Weston Ranch came within one win of making the playoffs.

“We put a lot on our run game and that’s where we have to be,” said Davis, who’s in his fourth season. “We’re in the VOL. We have to be able to run the football, so that’s where we’ve geared up our stuff, and that’s where we think we can play some pretty decent football.”

Bryant Bowen Jr., a senior, figures to get the majority of carries and junior Cory Floyd will share the load running behind Austin, center Chandler Brock and right guard Robert Wright, who set a school record when he

Weston Ranch’s Albert White, shown running against Manteca last season, returns this season for the Cougars. RECORD FILE 2015

bench-pressed 365 pounds this summer. Fullback/linebacker Andrew Farley squatted 515 pounds, power-cleaned 315 and benched 335.

“We’ve been getting after it in the weight room,” Davis said. “If we want to be able to compete in our league, you definitely have to.”

Defensively, the scheme will change this season to account for run offenses in the VOL and spread offenses the Cougars will encounter during the nonleague schedule and against VOL foe Manteca.

“We want to be able to play

against the spread,” Davis said. “Obviously, the VOL still runs the football, but we just have some dudes that play fast.

We made it simple and just let them focus on playing.”

Farley leads the linebacker corps, the defense’s strength, with Albert White and Nick Patterson, who recovered a fumble and returned it for a touchdown last season against Sierra.

and averaged 8.2 yards per carry in limited duty last season behind Erron Duncan, but he figures to play a much more prominent role in the running game.

Marsalys Austin (OT/DT, 6-3, 230, senior) The Skinny: Big, strong, fast

and smart are the traits Austin brings to an offensive line that will be the strength of the offense.

Elijah Harper (WR/S, 6-3, 180, senior) The Skinny: Harper is pull-

PLAYERS TO WATCH Bryant Bowen Jr. (RB/LB, 5-10, 215, senior) The Skinny: Bowen Jr. ran for

377 yards and two touchdowns

ing for the running game to perform so well that it opens up opportunities for the passing game. Harper had only

Weston Ranch Cougars Head coach: Seth Davis (4th year) 2015 results: 5-5, 2-5 VOL, did not qualify for playoffs Tough losses: RB/DB Erron Duncan, WR/DB Cinque Benn, DL Alonzo Gaxola Key returners: RB Bryant Bowen sr., LB Andrew Farley, sr., WR Elijah Harper, sr., OL Chandler Brock, jr.

Top newcomers: QB Brandon Brown, jr., WR James Walker, sr., RB Steven Hampton, jr.

Games to watch: Edison (Sept. 2), at Manteca (Sept.

30), Sierra (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: West Coast, Defense: 5-3 Area of strength: Powerful offensive line returns to lead running backs Area of concern: Passing game consistency, secondary defending solid passing opposition

one reception for 8 yards last season but will be a prime target for quarterback Malik Tatum, Terry Snipes or Brandon Brown.

VOL: LATHROP SPARTANS

‘We built a foundation’

By Thomas Lawrence Record Staff Writer

LATHROP — The Spartans are officially in

is,” said Pirillo, a 2004 Manteca High graduate.

“Franklin provided us with that opportunity, and I think that’s a great challenge for us.”

The Spartans feature some new faces leading the way, including junior quarterback Keonnee Linnell, and senior two-way lineman Placido Esparza is set to plug up the middle for the defense. Esparza must replace the presence of Rob Luckett, a first-team All-Area defensive lineman now playing for Modesto Junior College.

uncharted territory.

Lathrop didn’t have a winning season before last year. Much less earning the No. 1 seed in a section playoff bracket.

But the Spartans, whose program launched in 2009, did both under then first-year coach Joe Pirillo.

Lathrop is even deeper and more athletic, according to Pirillo, and in a VOL that features PLAYER TO WATCH more parity than 2015’s version dominated by R.J. Tisdell (WR/FS, senior) Central Catholic and Oakdale.

Age: 17, Birthplace: Hayward Pirillo strengthened Lathrop’s preseason Favorite NFL player: Amari Cooper schedule by adding Elk Grove-Franklin out of Favorite NFL team: Oakland Raiders the Sacramento area’s deadly Delta League.

Motivation: “Seeing my loved ones struggle, The Wildcats have posted seven consecutive and wanting to give my school and city somewinning seasons. thing to be proud of.”

“We want to go out and play the best there

Lathrop Spartans Head coach: Joe Pirillo (2nd year) 2015 results: 6-5, 4-3 VOL, lost 30-29 to Los Banos in Div. IV playoffs Toughest losses: DL Rob Luckett, QB Diego Chavez, RB/ DB Brian Terrell Key returners: LB/RB/P Tremayne Tuipuloto Willis Jr., Sr., WR/FS R.J. Tisdell, Sr., OL/DE Placido Esparza, Sr. Top newcomers: QB/OLB Keonee Linnell, Jr., OL/DL Luis Rivas, Jr. Biggest games: Elk GroveFranklin (Sept. 16), Manteca (Oct. 21), Sierra (Oct. 28) Schemes – Offense: Multiple formations, Defense: 3-4 Area of strength: Versatile,

two-way players return with playoff experience Area of concern: Finding new leaders on offensive, defensive lines

2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – West, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Hilmar, 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 – BYE Sept. 16 – Elk Grove-Franklin, 7 p.m.

Sept. 23 – East Union, 7 p.m.* Sept. 30 – Central Catholic, 7 p.m.* Oct. 7 – Oakdale, 7 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Weston Ranch, 7 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Manteca, 7 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Sierra, 7 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Kimball, 7 p.m.* Home games in bold *Valley Oak League game

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

19

2016 SCHEDULE FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL WEEK 0 (AUG. 26) 7 p.m. Amador at Union Mine 7 p.m. Brookside Chr. at Rio Vista 7 p.m. Calaveras at El Capitan 7 p.m. Escalon at Enochs 7 p.m. Lincoln at Antioch 7 p.m. Livermore at Kimball 7 p.m. Tracy at San Ramon Valley 7 p.m. Vacaville Chr. at Millennium (at Tracy) 7 p.m. Weston Ranch at Ceres 7:15 p.m. Elk Grove-Franklin at McNair 7:15 p.m. Grace Davis at Bear Creek 7:15 p.m. Gregori at Chavez 7:15 p.m. Heritage at Tokay (Grape Bowl) 7:15 p.m. Lathrop at West 7:30 p.m. Franklin at Linden 7:30 p.m. Mesa Verde at Argonaut 7:30 p.m. Ripon Chr. at Mountain House 7:30 p.m. Sierra at Ripon

WEEK 1 (SEPT. 2) 7 p.m. Central Valley at Sierra 7 p.m. East Union at Ceres 7 p.m. Edison at Weston Ranch 7 p.m. Hilmar at Lathrop 7 p.m. Millennium at Elsie Allen 7 p.m. Mountain House at El Capitan 7 p.m. Stagg at Modesto 7 p.m. West at Kimball 7:15 p.m. Bear Creek at Tokay (Grape Bowl) 7:15 p.m. Cardinal Newman at St. Mary’s 7:15 p.m. Cordova at Chavez 7:15 p.m. Freedom at Tracy 7:15 p.m. McNair at Atwater 7:15 p.m. Pitman at Lincoln 7:30 p.m. Bret Harte at Riverbank 7:30 p.m. Escalon at Calaveras 7:30 p.m. Linden at Gustine 7:30 p.m. Lodi at Sonora 7:30 p.m. Rio Vista at Amador 7:30 p.m. San Juan at Ripon 7:30 p.m. Stone Ridge Chr. at Ripon Chr.

WEEK 2 (SEPT. 9) 7 p.m. Amador at San Juan 7 p.m. Denair at Brookside Chr. (at Lincoln) 7 p.m. East Union at Johansen 7 p.m. Enochs at Manteca 7 p.m. St. Mary’s at Central Catholic 7 p.m. Tokay at Downey 7:15 p.m. Beyer at Edison 7:15 p.m. Chavez at Pacheco 7:15 p.m. Liberty Ranch at Franklin 7:15 p.m. Lincoln at Elk Grove 7:15 p.m. Merced at McNair 7:15 p.m. Sheldon at West 7:15 p.m. Sierra at Lodi (Grape Bowl) 7:15 p.m. Tracy at Turlock 7:15 p.m. Weston Ranch at Bear Creek 7:30 p.m. Colfax at Argonaut 7:30 p.m. East Nicolaus at Ripon Chr. 7:30 p.m. Golden Sierra at Bret Harte 7:30 p.m. Liberty at Escalon 7:30 p.m. Linden at Galt

7:30 p.m. Modesto Chr. at Calaveras 7:30 p.m. Mountain House at Waterford 7:30 p.m. Ripon at Sonora 7:30 p.m. Stagg at Laguna Creek

WEEK 3 (SEPT. 16) 7 p.m. Bret Harte at Highlands 7 p.m. Elk Grove-Franklin at Lathrop 7 p.m. Valley Chr. at Millennium (at Kimball) 7 p.m. West at East Union 7:15 p.m. Chavez at Tokay 7:15 p.m. Cosumnes Oaks at St. Mary’s 7:15 p.m. Downey at Lincoln 7:15 p.m. Florin at Franklin 7:15 p.m. Heritage at Edison 7:15 p.m. Kimball at Tracy 7:15 p.m. Lodi at Stagg 7:15 p.m. McNair at Gregori 7:30 p.m. Argonaut at Denair 7:30 p.m. Bear Creek at Vallejo 7:30 p.m. Calaveras at Union Mine 7:30 p.m. Le Grand at Linden 7:30 p.m. Liberty Ranch at Escalon 7:30 p.m. Livingston at Mountain House 7:30 p.m. Ripon at Grace Davis

WEEK 4 (SEPT. 23) 7 p.m. Big Valley Chr. at Millennium 7 p.m. Central Catholic at Weston Ranch 7 p.m. Lathrop at East Union 7 p.m. Manteca at Kimball 7 p.m. Mountain House at Hercules 7 p.m. Oakdale at Sierra 7 p.m. St. Mary’s at St. John Bosco (at Whittier College) 7:15 p.m. Central Valley at West 7:15 p.m. Chavez at Lincoln 7:15 p.m. Edison at Lodi (Grape Bowl) 7:15 p.m. Liberty at Tracy 7:15 p.m. Tokay at McNair 7:30 p.m. Amador at Linden 7:30 p.m. Bret Harte at Argonaut 7:30 p.m. Orestimba at Ripon Chr. 7:30 p.m. Patterson at Escalon 7:30 p.m. Ripon at Sutter 7:30 p.m. Sonora at Calaveras

WEEK 5 (SEPT. 30) 7 p.m. East Union at Sierra 7 p.m. Lathrop at Central Catholic 7 p.m. Kimball at Oakdale 7 p.m. Riverbank at Millennium (at Kimball) 7 p.m. Weston Ranch at Manteca 7:15 p.m. Christian Brothers at Stagg 7:15 p.m. Lodi at Bear Creek 7:15 p.m. Rosemont at Franklin 7:30 p.m. Amador at Sonora 7:30 p.m. Calaveras at Argonaut 7:30 p.m. Edison at Pacheco 7:30 p.m. Linden at Summerville 7:30 p.m. Waterford at Ripon Chr. 7:30 p.m. Winters at Bret Harte

WEEK 6 (OCT. 7) 7 p.m. Central Catholic at Kimball

7 p.m. Oakdale at Lathrop 7 p.m. Sierra at Manteca 7 p.m. Weston Ranch at East Union 7:15 p.m. Bear Creek at Edison 7:15 p.m. Franklin at Stagg 7:15 p.m. Lincoln at West 7:15 p.m. McNair at Chavez 7:15 p.m. Tokay at St. Mary’s 7:15 p.m. Tracy at Lodi (Grape Bowl) 7:30 p.m. Argonaut at Amador 7:30 p.m. Brookside Chr. at Riverbank 7:30 p.m. Calaveras at Bret Harte 7:30 p.m. Hilmar at Escalon 7:30 p.m. Mountain House at Ripon 7:30 p.m. Ripon Chr. at Denair

WEEK 7 (OCT. 14) 7 p.m. East Union at Oakdale 7 p.m. Lathrop at Weston Ranch 7 p.m. Manteca at Central Catholic 7 p.m. Millennium at Turlock Chr. (Denair) 7 p.m. Sierra at Kimball TBA – Brookside Chr. at Sierra Ridge/ROP 7:15 p.m. Chavez at Franklin 7:15 p.m. Edison at McNair 7:15 p.m. Lodi at Lincoln 7:15 p.m. St. Mary’s at West 7:15 p.m. Stagg at Bear Creek 7:15 p.m. Tracy at Tokay (Grape Bowl) 7:30 p.m. Argonaut at Summerville 7:30 p.m. Bret Harte at Amador 7:30 p.m. Escalon at Mountain House 7:30 p.m. Ripon at Modesto Chr. 7:30 p.m. Ripon Chr. at Gustine 7:30 p.m. Sonora at Linden

WEEK 8 (OCT. 21)

7:15 p.m. McNair at Franklin 7:15 p.m. Stagg at Edison 7:15 p.m. West at Tokay (Grape Bowl) 7:30 p.m. Argonaut at Sonora 7:30 p.m. Escalon at Modesto Chr. 7:30 p.m. Hilmar at Mountain House 7:30 p.m. Hughson at Ripon 7:30 p.m. Linden at Bret Harte 7:30 p.m. Ripon Chr. at Le Grand 7:30 p.m. Summerville at Calaveras 7:30 p.m. Yosemite at Amador

WEEK 10 (NOV. 4) 7 p.m. Brookside Chr. at Millennium (at Tracy) 7 p.m. Lathrop at Kimball 7 p.m. Manteca at East Union 7 p.m. Sierra at Weston Ranch 7:15 p.m. Bear Creek at McNair 7:15 p.m. Chavez at Stagg 7:15 p.m. Franklin at Edison 7:15 p.m. Lincoln at St. Mary’s 7:15 p.m. Tokay at Lodi (Grape Bowl) 7:15 p.m. Tracy at West 7:30 p.m. Calaveras at Linden 7:30 p.m. Delhi at Ripon Chr. 7:30 p.m. Dixon at Argonaut 7:30 p.m. Hilmar at Ripon 7:30 p.m. Hughson at Escalon 7:30 p.m. Modesto Chr. at Mountain House 7:30 p.m. Sonora at Bret Harte 7:30 p.m. Summerville at Amador

THURSDAY GAME

7 p.m. Central Catholic at Sierra 7 p.m. Kimball at East Union 7 p.m. Manteca at Lathrop 7 p.m. Stone Ridge Chr. at Millennium (at Kimball) 7 p.m. Weston Ranch at Oakdale 7:15 p.m. Edison at Chavez 7:15 p.m. Franklin at Bear Creek 7:15 p.m. McNair at Stagg 7:15 p.m. St. Mary’s at Tracy 7:15 p.m. Tokay at Lincoln 7:15 p.m. West at Lodi (Grape Bowl) 7:30 p.m. Amador at Calaveras 7:30 p.m. Bret Harte at Summerville 7:30 p.m. Linden at Argonaut 7:30 p.m. Mariposa at Ripon Chr. 7:30 p.m. Mountain House at Hughson 7:30 p.m. Ripon at Escalon

WEEK 1 (SEPT. 1)

WEEK 9 (OCT. 28)

1 p.m. Brookside Chr. at Johnson

2 p.m. Millennium at Sierra Ridge/ROP 7 p.m. Brookside Chr. at Turlock Chr. 7 p.m. East Union at Central Catholic 7 p.m. Kimball at Weston Ranch 7 p.m. Oakdale at Manteca 7 p.m. Sierra at Lathrop 7:15 p.m. Bear Creek at Chavez 7:15 p.m. Lincoln at Tracy 7:15 p.m. Lodi at St. Mary’s

7:15 p.m. Franklin at Grace Davis (at Downey)

SATURDAY GAMES WEEK 0 (AUG. 27) 1 p.m. St. Mary's at Serra 2 p.m. Stagg vs. Reno (at South Tahoe) 7 p.m. Manteca at Buhach Colony (at Atwater)

WEEK 1 (SEPT. 3) 7 p.m. Argonaut at Brookside Chr. (at Lincoln), Christian Bros. at Manteca

WEEK 3 (SEPT. 17) WEEK 4 (SEPT. 24) 7 p.m. Big Valley Chr. at Millennium (at Tracy), Stone Ridge Chr. at Brookside Chr. (at Lincoln)

WEEK 8 (OCT. 22) 7 p.m. Big Valley Chr. at Brookside Chr. (at Lincoln)

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Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

VOL: SIERRA TIMBERWOLVES

‘Put the past behind us’ State champs stay focused Sierra Timberwolves

By Thomas Lawrence Record Staff Writer

MANTECA — When we last

saw the Timberwolves, they were wrapped in hugs and covered with mud at the 50-yard line of Chowchilla High, a newly-crowned CIF State champion.

Senior quarterback Mark Vicente, then a junior, orchestrated a historic 82-yard, game-winning touchdown drive capped by a 9-yard TD pass to Mark Paule Jr. Sierra was, in mid-October, a sub-.500 team and was one of just six teams to earn an atlarge section playoff bid with a 5-5 record.

But that run, too good for a movie script, is long over. And 12th-year coach Jeff Harbison and company know it.

“Last year is last year,” said Harbison, a Manteca High graduate who’s won two shared Valley Oak League titles at the helm of Sierra.

“These players have to come out and earn whatever it is that they want. Simply put, really.”

Vicente has brand-new wide receivers and a new featured tailback, which could be three-year varsity player and senior Marcos Castillo. While Tamiano and Alofaituli are the heart of the defense, they’ll miss first-team All-Area lineman Andrew Guevara, he of 19.5 sacks in 2015. Not to mention, two-way lineman and second-team All-Area pick Joshua Fala, now with Delaware State.

Player to watch Nashon Tamiano (OLB/S, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Seaside Favorite NFL player: Mason

Foster Favorite NFL team: New England Patriots Motivation: “The people in my corner, the unfortunate circumstances I’ve had, and my mother.”

Sierra’s Nashon Tamiano, left, raises the Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV championship banner. RECORD FILE 2015

Notable alumnus Nigel Malone The former Timberwolf and Kansas State player had 12 interceptions in two years in Manhattan, Kansas.

Malone also had 109 total tackles in that time, and was signed by the Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers and Denver Broncos in 2013 as an undrafted free agent.

Unfortunately for Malone, he was only an offseason acquisition for all three of those franchises, and hasn’t seen time in the NFL. Malone had 52 catches for 707 yards and six touchdowns, along with eight interceptions as a Sierra senior in 2007.

By the Numbers 82 The T’wolves embedded themselves in local and state lore by reeling off an 82-yard, game-winning TD drive in the waning moments last December at Chowchilla.

2,312 Of the 2,607 passing yards Vicente and rare backups D.J. Wyatt and Mark Paule Jr. threw for last season, 2,312 of them belonged to now-graduated receivers. Namely, those were Wyatt (1,034 yards), Jimmy Galindo (686) and Tim Brown (316).

10 Sierra has won 10 games for two consecutive seasons under Harbison. The Timberwolves shared the VOL title with Oakdale after a 9-1 regular season in 2014, and ended 2015 on a sixgame winning streak.

QUOTE OF NOTE “We’ve got to put the past behind us. We’ve got to stay hungry. We can’t be comfortable just because we’ve got a championship.”

– senior linebacker Seuseu Alofaituli, on Sierra avoiding a championship hangover.

Head coach: Jeff Harbison (12th year) 2015 results: 10-5, 3-4 VOL, won CIF State Div. IV-A final 20-15 over Chowchilla, won section Div. IV final 42-0 over Liberty Ranch Toughest losses: DL Andrew Guevara, OL/ DL Joshua Fala, WR/DB D.J. Wyatt, RB/DB Mark Paule Jr. Key returners: QB Mark Vicente, sr., ILB Seuseu Alofaituli, sr., OLB/S Nashon Tamiano, sr.

Games to watch: Oakdale (Sept. 23), at Manteca (Oct. 7), Central Catholic (Oct. 21) Schemes – Offense: Shotgun spread, Defense: 4-2-5 Area of strength: Defensive leaders and strong core return Area of concern: Inexperience on offensive and defensive lines

2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Ripon, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Central Valley, 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Lodi, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 16 – BYE Sept. 23 – Oakdale, 7 p.m.* Sept. 30 – East Union, 7 p.m.* Oct. 7 – Manteca, 7 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Kimball, 7 p.m.* Oct. 21 – Central Catholic, 7 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Lathrop, 7 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Weston Ranch, 7 p.m.* Home games in bold *Valley Oak League game

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

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VOL: EAST UNION LANCERS

Linemen, third-year QB lead the way

By Thomas Lawrence

East Union Lancers

Record Staff Writer

MANTECA — East Union’s

opening three games of 2015 were like one giant coming out party.

The Lancers capped their three-game winning streak with quarterbackslash-kicker Jack Weaver’s field WEAVER goal to beat Modesto-Gregori as time expired.

Then came VOL play, and a sobering seven-game losing streak. East Union was beaten soundly by Modesto-Central Catholic, Oakdale, Manteca, Sierra and Lathrop.

But the Lancers dropped close games to Kimball (20-19 in overtime) and Weston Ranch (26-20). Had the script been flipped, East Union would’ve finished at .500 and been in consideration for an at-large playoff bid.

East Union’s Isaiah Cormier runs against Lathrop during their Valley Oak League game in September 2015 at Lathrop High. Cormier is one of the Lancers’ top returning seniors. RECORD FILE 2015

“Any loss we take, it’s going to hurt a little bit,” senior inside linebacker Joseph Reynaga said. “It’s going to motivate us for next season.”

East Union is powered by the veteran starting quarterback Weaver. Weaver is the only three-year starter under center among area large and medium schools.

“I can call him like a fifth-year senior. He is just so cool and calm,” Lancers coach Willie Herrera said of Weaver. “It’s pretty amazing what the kid can do on a whiteboard. The command that he has, the respect that he has of his teammates, his coaches — he’s really aware of what he needs to do to improve.”

Head coach: Willie Herrera (7th year) 2015 results: 3-7, 0-7 VOL, did not qualify for playoffs Toughest losses: WR/DB Austin Miller, LB/RB Angel Roblero, RB/WR Marcus Panelo Key returners: QB/K Jack Weaver, sr., ILB/OL Joseph Reynaga, sr., RB/SS Angel Sena, sr.

Top newcomers: RB/OLB Mason James, jr., OT/DE Jaysen Reindel, jr., WR/DB Matthew Pilkay, jr.

Games to watch: Lathrop (Sept.

23), at Sierra (Sept. 30), Manteca (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Winged, Defense: Multiple fronts Area of strength: Quarterback’s

Player to watch Jack Weaver (QB/K, senior) Age: 17, Birthplace: Santa Clara Favorite NFL players: Drew

Brees and Russell Wilson Favorite NFL team: New

leadership and muchimproved lines Area of concern: Defensive and skill-position depth and inexperience

2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – BYE Sept. 2 – Ceres Sept. 9 – Johansen Sept. 16 – West Sept. 23 – Lathrop* Sept. 30 – Sierra* Oct. 7 – Weston Ranch* Oct. 14 – Oakdale* Oct. 21 – Kimball* Oct. 28 – Central Catholic* Nov. 4 – Manteca* Home games in bold All games kick off at 7 p.m. *Valley Oak League game

Orleans Saints Motivation: “Using the talent God has blessed me with to enjoy the sport I love, make my parents proud and prove everyone wrong about my team and I.”

VOL: KIMBALL JAGUARS

Young program seeks consistency

By Thomas Lawrence Record Staff Writer

Kimball Jaguars

The Valley Oak League is saturated with new faces in 2016, and that's a good thing for Kimball.

After rising to 5-5 marks in 2012 under coach Matt Loggins and 2013 under Charles Spikes, the Jaguars are 4-16 combined the past two seasons.

Second-year coach Dave McPherson, though, has had more time to implement his spread option offense. And he faces the team he was an assistant for before Kimball — Livermore High — at 7 p.m. on Aug. 26 in Tracy.

Though he's not listed as a quarterback, the Jaguars do have a QB with varsity experience in senior Tyler Doan.

Head coach: Dave McPherson (2nd year) 2015 results: 2-8, 1-6 VOL, did not qualify for playoffs Tough losses: RB/LB Shammah Luani, WR Ethan Owens, DB Myles Hall Key returners: SB/RB/QB Tyler Doan, sr., RB/OLB Ryan Rivera, sr.

Games to watch: Livermore (Aug. 26), West (Sept. 2), Lathrop (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Spread option, Defense: 4-3 (schemes from 2015) Area of strength: Team speed, second year under McPherson regime

Player to watch Deion Lightfoot-Shelton (SS/CB/RB, senior)

Lightfoot-Shelton is already a track and field star, as a two-time Sac-Joaquin Masters champion in the 110-meter high hurdles. But

Kimball quarterback Tyler Doan, left, throws against West during their nonleague football game on Sept. 4, 2015, at West High in Tracy. Doan is one of the Jaguars’ key returners under second-year coach Dave McPherson. RECORD FILE 2015

whether that straight-line speed and leaping ability translates to the football field is yet to be seen. It is a fascinating storyline for Kimball, though, which must utilize its team speed to separate itself from the dominant "in the trenches" teams like Modesto-Central Catholic, Oakdale and Manteca.

Area of concern: Offensive, defensive line play in strong VOL

2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Livermore, 7 p.m.

Sept. 2 – West, 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 – BYE Sept. 16 – Tracy, 7:15 p.m.

Sept. 23 – Manteca, 7 p.m.* Sept. 30 – Oakdale, 7 p.m.* Oct. 7 – Central Catholic, 7 p.m.* Oct. 14 – Sierra, 7 p.m.* Oct. 21 – East Union, 7 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Weston Ranch, 7 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Lathrop, 7 p.m.* Home games in bold *Valley Oak League game

22

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 | The Record’s 2016 Prep Football Preview

CCAA, MLL, SL AND TVL

Brookside, Calaveras ready to chase league crowns Staff reports CENTRAL CALIFORNIA ATHLETIC ALLIANCE Brookside Christian Knights Head coach: Jordan McGowan (1st year) 2015 results: 3-7, 2-3 CCAA, did not qualify for playoffs Tough losses: LB/RB Sione Liku, RB/WR Joseph Hernandez, TE Cameron Caldron Key returners: QB Quincy Glasper, jr., WR Jalen Williams, so., OL Eryk Schaftlein, sr.

Top newcomer: RB/WR Reuben Lee, jr.

Biggest games: Argonaut (Sept.

3), Stone Ridge Chr. (Sept. 24), at Millennium (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Air raid, Defense: 4-2-5/4-4 Area of strength: QB, offensive skill position players experienced Area of concern: Youth throughout roster, lack of depth 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Rio Vista, 7 p.m.

Sept. 3 – Argonaut, 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Denair, 7 p.m.

Sept. 17 – Johnson, 1 p.m.

Sept. 24 – Stone Ridge Christian, 7 p.m.* Sept. 30 – BYE Oct. 7 – Riverbank, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 14 – Sierra Ridge/ROP, TBA* Oct. 21 – Big Valley Christian, 7 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Turlock Christian, 7 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Millennium (at Tracy), 7 p.m.* All home games at Lincoln Home games in bold *Central California Athletic Alliance game STOCKTON — Jordan McGowan doesn’t hold back.

The first-year Brookside Christian coach realizes his team’s limitations – an inexperienced roster and a dearth of depth – but isn’t shy about his skill position players. With 6-foot-4 sophomore Jalen Williams leading the wide receiving corps, along with brother Justin Williams, and second-year quarterback Quincy Glasper, McGowan plans on scoring points in bunches.

And he thinks that group stands up to what Stockton and the rest of San Joaquin County have to offer.

“We might have the best skill players in the area,” he said.

Though he doesn’t have copious amounts of capable linemen, McGowan likes the group onhand, including senior leader Eryk Schaftlein, a 6-foot, 290-pound senior center.

“He’s been working his tail off,” McGowan said. “He’s been taking kids under his wing and getting

them right.”

Letter to know B The Knights will have a special, Brooklyn Dodgers style “B” on their uniforms this year, which is a salute to McGowan’s personal life. His infant daughter Brooklyn Rose was born this summer, and the “B” is in her honor.

MOTHER LODE LEAGUE Calaveras High Head coach: Jason Weatherby (9th year) 2015 results: 8-4, 5-1 MLL, lost 34-20 to Sierra in Div. IV semis Tough losses: QB Dylan Byrd, TE/DL Shane Torre, T Garrett Heffington, WR/CB Trevor Ramirez Key returners: RB/FS Anthony Giangregorio, sr., RB/SS Noah Preuss, sr., LB Nick Quinday, sr.

Top newcomers: QB Kyle Byrd, jr., OLB/T Austin Watters, jr., RB/LB Chance Norton, jr.

Games to watch: Escalon (Sept. 2), Sonora (Sept. 23), at Bret Harte (Oct. 7) Schemes – Offense: Fly/power, Defense: 5-2-4 Area of strength: Athleticism across the roster, with two star tailbacks Area of concern: Experience on the offensive line, size in general 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – El Capitan, 7 p.m.

Sept. 2 – Escalon, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Modesto Christian, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Union Mine, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 23 – Sonora, 7:30 p.m.* Sept. 30 – Argonaut, 7:30 p.m.* Oct. 7 – Bret Harte, 7:30 p.m.* Oct. 14 – BYE Oct. 21 – Amador, 7:30 p.m.* Oct. 28 – Summerville, 7:30 p.m.* Nov. 4 – Linden, 7:30 p.m.* Home games in bold *Mother Lode League game In the Mother Lode League, the team that runs and defends the run well, is the team that goes home happy on Friday nights.

Calaveras coach Jason Weatherby knows this all too well. So to return a pair of senior running backs with 1,000-yard potential in Anthony Giangregorio and Noah Preuss?

Well, Weatherby knows that’s a rare treat.

“They’re both really smart players, so they can play three and four different positions,” Weatherby said.

By the numbers 1,806 Giangregorio, Preuss and their 1,806 combined rushing yards return to fuel Calaveras.

While Giangregorio carried the load most of the year, Preuss,

after sitting out five weeks via a double-transfer rule, averaged 10.9 yards per carry.

8 Calaveras should be proud of qualifying for eight section championship games. But the program holds the dubious distinction of losing every single one of them.

Calaveras holds the Sac-Joaquin Section record for most section finals reached without bringing home a trademark blue banner.

Linden Lions Head coach: Mark Miller (29th season, 7th consecutive season) 2015 results: 2-8, 1-5 MLL, did not qualify for playoffs Tough losses: QB Anthony Craven, RB/WR/DB Max Nicol, C Brent Humphreys Key returners: RB/LB Hunter White, sr., OG/LB Francisco Angeles, sr., TE/OLB Zach Anderson, jr.

Top newcomers: OT/DL Martin Gonzalez, jr., SS/CB/WR Rowdy Reed, jr., TE/G/CB Cody Leppert, jr.

Games to watch: Franklin (Aug. 26), Amador (Sept. 23), Calaveras (Nov. 4) Schemes – Offense: Splitback veer and pistol, Defense: 4-4 Area of strength: Skill positions solid across the board Area of concern: Depth across offensive, defensive lines 2016 Schedule Aug. 26 – Franklin Sept. 2 – Gustine Sept. 9 – Galt Sept. 16 – Le Grand Sept. 23 – Amador* Sept. 30 – Summerville* Oct. 7 – BYE Oct. 14 – Sonora* Oct. 21 – Argonaut* Oct. 28 – Bret Harte* Nov. 4 – Calaveras* All games at 7:30 p.m.

Home games in bold *Mother Lode League game By the Numbers 1976 Mark Miller’s first season leading the Lions was in 1976.

That’s four decades ago. As in, Gerald Ford was president (and soon to lose to Jimmy Carter on Super Tuesday), Paul McCartney’s band Wings’ “Silly Love Songs” was the top song of the year, and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” was the Oscar winner for best picture. Football fads have come and gone, but Miller has remained a staple in Linden. He did take a break, as he’s in his 29th year overall but just his seventh consecutive year, but Miller has also coached Linden softball the past

17 seasons.

IN HIS WORDS Miller reflects on football, career “Kids are kids. I don’t know that there’s a big difference (since 1970s). The rule changes are bigger than the kids are. One of the things that is an improvement is the focus on the concussion issue. I really like that.

Once the ball is put in play, it’s organized chaos. Nothing MILLER brings out the emotions, good or bad, more than football does.

“There’s nothing better than Friday nights. The lights. The stadium. The cheerleaders. The bands. The booster clubs. The snack bars. When Linden High has a home game, there’s over 150 students involved somewhere on that field. There are a lot of students on that field. It’s quite an event.”

TRANS-VALLEY LEAGUE Escalon hungry for playoff return For nearly two decades, the Cougars making the section playoffs was about as predictable as the homecoming parade that crawls through downtown Escalon.

But Escalon had some growing pains in 2015, going 5-5 and missing the postseason after a string of 17 consecutive appearances.

If history has shown anything about coach Mark Loureiro, though, is that a stumble won’t mean a slide for his rock-solid program. Loureiro, entering his 28th year, is second in Northern California history with 271 career wins. The Cougars have brought home eight section championships, and captured a CIF State crown in 2010.

“It’s a driving force for me,” said Loureiro, who’s made the playoffs in 25 of his 27 years with Escalon, of missing the postseason last autumn. “It was kind of a bitter bite in my mouth.”

Escalon returns a pivotal offensive trio in seniors quarterback Dylan Azevedo, running back C.J. Gumbs and fullback Tim Costa.

Not to mention, three-year starters on the offensive line: brothers Bo and Blue Capps.

“You can’t say enough about those kids,” Loureiro said of the Capps. “They’re going to be captains and leaders for our team.”

Longtime Ripon assistant takes over Chris Musseman hasn’t had

much time to settle into his new position as Ripon’s head coach.

Luckily, he won’t have to spend much time getting acquainted with the players.

He has been with the program for 15 years, and was the defensive coordinator last season.

Musseman was called upon in late March to replace the retiring Chris Johnson.

“I did get the job a little later, but everything is going well,” Musseman said. “I’ve been at the school, so that helps. But being the varsity head coach is very different. It’s a completely different animal. There’s so much to do off of the football field, but it’s a very exciting challenge.”

Musseman, 45, said he plans to keep what has been successful while also putting some of his own touches on the product.

“Coach Johnson did a lot of great things that we will keep in place, but there will be some tweaks,” Musseman said. “In high school, every season is a new start.”

The 2015 Ripon squad was senior-heavy, so there is rebuilding to be done.

Among the key returners are wide receiver and defensive back Aaron Paschini and free safety andrunning back Louis Candido.

Sophomore Ryan Daggett is the early favorite in the battle to be starting quarterback.

SOUTHERN LEAGUE Ripon Christian reloads The Knights are coming off of a nine-win season and a trip to the Sac-Joaquin Section Division VI semifinals. To repeat that level of success or more, Ripon Christian has to replace the 14 productive seniors who graduated.

“At smaller schools, graduating something like 14 seniors can be a challenge,” Knights head coach Trey Ozenbaugh said. “But we’re excited about this year’s group.”

Among those who have moved on is quarterback Travis Zuidervaart, who threw for 2,029 yards and 27 touchdowns last year.

Juniors Mark Ozenbaugh and Willem Hoekstra are battling to replace him.

The key returners include Ty Beidleman, a 6-foot-6 senior who was an all-Southern League tight end in 2015 who will also play tight end and outside linebacker. And the Knights expect a lot out of linebacker/offensive lineman Jake Beukelman, who is also a kicker.

— By Scott Linesburgh and Thomas Lawrence, Record Staff Writers