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St. Mary's - Stockton vs Mater Dei @ Levi's Stadium

bulldogmgc

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This week's NCP Pick'em Game of the Week is @ St. Mary's High School in Stockton, CA, on Saturday, 8/23, @ 7PM.

Both teams lose some key players to graduation. Both teams still return some key players from last year. Last year's game was a shootout in the first half until the Rams took over in the second half. A few big factors that changed the game (which was the biggest?):

1) Leki Nunn (Serra) exits the game in the 2nd half after injury sustained in long TD kickoff return.

2) Tipped interception just when the Padres were about to score, along with 2 more Ram INT's and 1 recovered fumble by the Rams.

3) Dusty Frampton (St. Mary's) - 265 yards rushing on 21 carries, along with 6 TD's.

Click here for highlights from 2016 meeting.

QB. St. Mary's will be without last year's QB, Jake Dunniway. While Serra will be without their starting QB from last year, Leki Nunn. For 2017, Serra has depth at the QB position, with Luke Bottari, who played much last year in Leki's absence, anticipated to start. I wouldn't be surprised if the other two QB's from Serra saw some playing time, as well. They are ALL very good. For St. Mary's, Jake Dunniway was just as key to St. Mary's wins, as was their RB, Dusty Frampton. Jake provided the balance needed to keep the opposing defense on their toes with his accuracy/consistency. In last year's game, Jake complete 12 of 16 passes for 231 yards and 2 TD's vs Serra. He was fortunate to gain much experience at the helm as a junior before finishing strong as a senior last year. This year, the Rams will be turning to a sophomore, Noah May, who's very first Varsity game will be against the WCAL powerhouse Serra Padres. Although Noah is just a sophomore and this will be his very first Varsity game, he has shined at practice, at 7-on-7's during the spring/summer, and did not look to bad in the scrimmage vs Granite Bay. However, experience at this position to start the season is just too big of a factor. Edge Padres.

RB. Fortunately for Noah, he will still have Dusty Frampton in the backfield. Serra returns their stud First Team WCAL RB, Isiah Kendrick. Kendrick was able to run for 82 yards on 9 carries vs the Rams defense last year, including one run for 42 yards and 1 TD. Considering the impact Frampton had last year vs Serra's defense, with 6 TD's ... Edge Rams.


WR. Rookie QB Noah May will have some very good weapons to throw to that will much alleviate the pressure, especially in Marcus Aponte and Tre Jenkins. Marcus had 4 receptions for 55 yards in last year's game vs Serra, with seniors Dewey Cotton and Keaton Hampton also contributing with 7 total receptions for 166 yards together. Tre Jenkins was not a factor on offense vs Serra last year, but was so on defense. He later proved to be effective on offense, too, later in the 2016 season, especially vs Cathedral Catholic in the state championship game when he hauled in a very long pass from Dunniway to take the game into OT. In addition to Aponte and Jenkins, there is Tre's twin brother Andrew Jenkins along with a huge cast of junior WR's who will get an opportunity to show their stuff. The Padres should take note of Rams junior WR, Maurice "MS2" Saulsbury, who returned a kickoff return for TD in the JV game. MS2 is 6'1" and runs a 4.5 40. Other potential junior WR's who could contribute in Saturday's game could be Dumaurier "Yay Yay" Cotton, who is Dewey's younger brother, along with the fastest sophomore in the state last year, Joseph Fontes. Fontes can fly! Serra should remember him from last year's JV game, as well. St. Mary's definitely has a huge depth in this position and for a new QB, it doesn't hurt. Serra returns First Team All WCAL and Serra’s Go-To WR from last season, Shane Villoroman, along with Leki's younger brother, 6'3" WR Patrick Nunn, who is garnering some national attention. St. Mary's might have the depth at this position and a very good 1-2 punch in Aponte and Tre Jenkins. But, Villoroman and Nunn will have a more experienced QB throwing to them. Edge Padres.

TE. Do either team utilize this position to receive the ball? Not much. Hence, ... Even

OL/DL. Both teams lost a bunch of players on their lines due to graduation. St. Mary's may have been hit the most with the departure of Popo Aumavae. Serra does return First Team WCAL, 6'3" 360lbs senior, Antonio Mafi, and 5'8" 200lbs junior, Caleb Tuimavave (who is listed at MLB but appears to be playing on the line in the latest scrimmage videos). St. Mary's counters with 6'6" 280lbs senior, Max Barth, and 6'3" 250lbs junior, Hunter Jones, and 5'7" 245lbs senior, Desean Brown. Although Serra's Mafi is going to be a force, the Rams have appear to have much more size/depth overall at this position. Edge Rams.

LB. Serra, based on scrimmage video, appear to be using #9, 6'3" 210lbs senior, Patrick Nunn, at the MLB position along with unlisted #41. The Rams return starter, 6'1" 205lbs senior, Harrison Heath, along with 6'0 200lbs senior, Chad Keamohuli-hearon, and may even play Dusty Frampton at LB. Rams Harrison Heath is pretty good. Edge Rams.

Secondary
. With the Jenkins brothers anchoring the secondary for the Rams, the Rams secondary is being touted as one of the best in the area. However, the Rams have a history of getting beat deep, and if there was an Achilles Heel for the Rams defense, I still believe it is their secondary, which has tendency to play the ball more and judge incorrectly the trajectory vs playing the player. I believe Serra's opportunity to steal this game away from the Rams will come in this area, even though last year, St. Mary's strength in this area led to 3 INT's, especially a key one when the Padres were close to scoring. The Padres WR's and seasoned QB may have more of advantage in this area vs the Rams secondary than the Rams newbie QB vs the Padres secondary. Edge Padres.

Special Teams. St. Mary's kicker graduated. So, the Rams will be breaking in a new kicker. Serra returns their kicker, in back-up QB, Jack Damelio. Serra's special teams last year looked great vs the Rams with Leki Nunn's return for TD, along with a recovered onsides kick. Even though Leki is gone, the Padres should still have a similar advantage they had last year. Edge Padres.

In summary, this game is going to be a shoot-out "again". Much will depend on which team's defense is able to make the stops and take advantage of any turnovers. But, as long as Dusty Frampton stays healthy, the Rams should be able to control the ground game and the clock. As much as St. Mary's lost players on the line to graduation, so did Serra. If newbie Ram QB can keep his composure and not turn the ball over and still make the necessary plays to his many WR's, along with anticipated Frampton dominating again, this game should result in a Rams victory. The Rams secondary will need to step up, as well. However, the Padres bring much talent/athleticism to the field to be competitive and could possibly walk away with the upset.
 
This week's NCP Pick'em Game of the Week is @ St. Mary's High School in Stockton, CA, on Saturday, 8/23, @ 7PM.

Both teams lose some key players to graduation. Both teams still return some key players from last year. Last year's game was a shootout in the first half until the Rams took over in the second half. A few big factors that changed the game (which was the biggest?):

1) Leki Nunn (Serra) exits the game in the 2nd half after injury sustained in long TD kickoff return.

2) Tipped interception just when the Padres were about to score, along with 2 more Ram INT's and 1 recovered fumble by the Rams.

3) Dusty Frampton (St. Mary's) - 265 yards rushing on 21 carries, along with 6 TD's.

Click here for highlights from 2016 meeting.

QB. St. Mary's will be without last year's QB, Jake Dunniway. While Serra will be without their starting QB from last year, Leki Nunn. For 2017, Serra has depth at the QB position, with Luke Bottari, who played much last year in Leki's absence, anticipated to start. I wouldn't be surprised if the other two QB's from Serra saw some playing time, as well. They are ALL very good. For St. Mary's, Jake Dunniway was just as key to St. Mary's wins, as was their RB, Dusty Frampton. Jake provided the balance needed to keep the opposing defense on their toes with his accuracy/consistency. In last year's game, Jake complete 12 of 16 passes for 231 yards and 2 TD's vs Serra. He was fortunate to gain much experience at the helm as a junior before finishing strong as a senior last year. This year, the Rams will be turning to a sophomore, Noah May, who's very first Varsity game will be against the WCAL powerhouse Serra Padres. Although Noah is just a sophomore and this will be his very first Varsity game, he has shined at practice, at 7-on-7's during the spring/summer, and did not look to bad in the scrimmage vs Granite Bay. However, experience at this position to start the season is just too big of a factor. Edge Padres.

RB. Fortunately for Noah, he will still have Dusty Frampton in the backfield. Serra returns their stud First Team WCAL RB, Isiah Kendrick. Kendrick was able to run for 82 yards on 9 carries vs the Rams defense last year, including one run for 42 yards and 1 TD. Considering the impact Frampton had last year vs Serra's defense, with 6 TD's ... Edge Rams.


WR. Rookie QB Noah May will have some very good weapons to throw to that will much alleviate the pressure, especially in Marcus Aponte and Tre Jenkins. Marcus had 4 receptions for 55 yards in last year's game vs Serra, with seniors Dewey Cotton and Keaton Hampton also contributing with 7 total receptions for 166 yards together. Tre Jenkins was not a factor on offense vs Serra last year, but was so on defense. He later proved to be effective on offense, too, later in the 2016 season, especially vs Cathedral Catholic in the state championship game when he hauled in a very long pass from Dunniway to take the game into OT. In addition to Aponte and Jenkins, there is Tre's twin brother Andrew Jenkins along with a huge cast of junior WR's who will get an opportunity to show their stuff. The Padres should take note of Rams junior WR, Maurice "MS2" Saulsbury, who returned a kickoff return for TD in the JV game. MS2 is 6'1" and runs a 4.5 40. Other potential junior WR's who could contribute in Saturday's game could be Dumaurier "Yay Yay" Cotton, who is Dewey's younger brother, along with the fastest sophomore in the state last year, Joseph Fontes. Fontes can fly! Serra should remember him from last year's JV game, as well. St. Mary's definitely has a huge depth in this position and for a new QB, it doesn't hurt. Serra returns First Team All WCAL and Serra’s Go-To WR from last season, Shane Villoroman, along with Leki's younger brother, 6'3" WR Patrick Nunn, who is garnering some national attention. St. Mary's might have the depth at this position and a very good 1-2 punch in Aponte and Tre Jenkins. But, Villoroman and Nunn will have a more experienced QB throwing to them. Edge Padres.

TE. Do either team utilize this position to receive the ball? Not much. Hence, ... Even

OL/DL. Both teams lost a bunch of players on their lines due to graduation. St. Mary's may have been hit the most with the departure of Popo Aumavae. Serra does return First Team WCAL, 6'3" 360lbs senior, Antonio Mafi, and 5'8" 200lbs junior, Caleb Tuimavave (who is listed at MLB but appears to be playing on the line in the latest scrimmage videos). St. Mary's counters with 6'6" 280lbs senior, Max Barth, and 6'3" 250lbs junior, Hunter Jones, and 5'7" 245lbs senior, Desean Brown. Although Serra's Mafi is going to be a force, the Rams have appear to have much more size/depth overall at this position. Edge Rams.

LB. Serra, based on scrimmage video, appear to be using #9, 6'3" 210lbs senior, Patrick Nunn, at the MLB position along with unlisted #41. The Rams return starter, 6'1" 205lbs senior, Harrison Heath, along with 6'0 200lbs senior, Chad Keamohuli-hearon, and may even play Dusty Frampton at LB. Rams Harrison Heath is pretty good. Edge Rams.

Secondary
. With the Jenkins brothers anchoring the secondary for the Rams, the Rams secondary is being touted as one of the best in the area. However, the Rams have a history of getting beat deep, and if there was an Achilles Heel for the Rams defense, I still believe it is their secondary, which has tendency to play the ball more and judge incorrectly the trajectory vs playing the player. I believe Serra's opportunity to steal this game away from the Rams will come in this area, even though last year, St. Mary's strength in this area led to 3 INT's, especially a key one when the Padres were close to scoring. The Padres WR's and seasoned QB may have more of advantage in this area vs the Rams secondary than the Rams newbie QB vs the Padres secondary. Edge Padres.

Special Teams. St. Mary's kicker graduated. So, the Rams will be breaking in a new kicker. Serra returns their kicker, in back-up QB, Jack Damelio. Serra's special teams last year looked great vs the Rams with Leki Nunn's return for TD, along with a recovered onsides kick. Even though Leki is gone, the Padres should still have a similar advantage they had last year. Edge Padres.

In summary, this game is going to be a shoot-out "again". Much will depend on which team's defense is able to make the stops and take advantage of any turnovers. But, as long as Dusty Frampton stays healthy, the Rams should be able to control the ground game and the clock. As much as St. Mary's lost players on the line to graduation, so did Serra. If newbie Ram QB can keep his composure and not turn the ball over and still make the necessary plays to his many WR's, along with anticipated Frampton dominating again, this game should result in a Rams victory. The Rams secondary will need to step up, as well. However, the Padres bring much talent/athleticism to the field to be competitive and could possibly walk away with the upset.

Can't argue with one iota here. Your prediction of a high-scoring affair seems about right. Good luck to you guys on Saturday.
 
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This week's NCP Pick'em Game of the Week is @ St. Mary's High School in Stockton, CA, on Saturday, 8/23, @ 7PM.

Both teams lose some key players to graduation. Both teams still return some key players from last year. Last year's game was a shootout in the first half until the Rams took over in the second half. A few big factors that changed the game (which was the biggest?):

1) Leki Nunn (Serra) exits the game in the 2nd half after injury sustained in long TD kickoff return.

2) Tipped interception just when the Padres were about to score, along with 2 more Ram INT's and 1 recovered fumble by the Rams.

3) Dusty Frampton (St. Mary's) - 265 yards rushing on 21 carries, along with 6 TD's.

Click here for highlights from 2016 meeting.

QB. St. Mary's will be without last year's QB, Jake Dunniway. While Serra will be without their starting QB from last year, Leki Nunn. For 2017, Serra has depth at the QB position, with Luke Bottari, who played much last year in Leki's absence, anticipated to start. I wouldn't be surprised if the other two QB's from Serra saw some playing time, as well. They are ALL very good. For St. Mary's, Jake Dunniway was just as key to St. Mary's wins, as was their RB, Dusty Frampton. Jake provided the balance needed to keep the opposing defense on their toes with his accuracy/consistency. In last year's game, Jake complete 12 of 16 passes for 231 yards and 2 TD's vs Serra. He was fortunate to gain much experience at the helm as a junior before finishing strong as a senior last year. This year, the Rams will be turning to a sophomore, Noah May, who's very first Varsity game will be against the WCAL powerhouse Serra Padres. Although Noah is just a sophomore and this will be his very first Varsity game, he has shined at practice, at 7-on-7's during the spring/summer, and did not look to bad in the scrimmage vs Granite Bay. However, experience at this position to start the season is just too big of a factor. Edge Padres.

RB. Fortunately for Noah, he will still have Dusty Frampton in the backfield. Serra returns their stud First Team WCAL RB, Isiah Kendrick. Kendrick was able to run for 82 yards on 9 carries vs the Rams defense last year, including one run for 42 yards and 1 TD. Considering the impact Frampton had last year vs Serra's defense, with 6 TD's ... Edge Rams.


WR. Rookie QB Noah May will have some very good weapons to throw to that will much alleviate the pressure, especially in Marcus Aponte and Tre Jenkins. Marcus had 4 receptions for 55 yards in last year's game vs Serra, with seniors Dewey Cotton and Keaton Hampton also contributing with 7 total receptions for 166 yards together. Tre Jenkins was not a factor on offense vs Serra last year, but was so on defense. He later proved to be effective on offense, too, later in the 2016 season, especially vs Cathedral Catholic in the state championship game when he hauled in a very long pass from Dunniway to take the game into OT. In addition to Aponte and Jenkins, there is Tre's twin brother Andrew Jenkins along with a huge cast of junior WR's who will get an opportunity to show their stuff. The Padres should take note of Rams junior WR, Maurice "MS2" Saulsbury, who returned a kickoff return for TD in the JV game. MS2 is 6'1" and runs a 4.5 40. Other potential junior WR's who could contribute in Saturday's game could be Dumaurier "Yay Yay" Cotton, who is Dewey's younger brother, along with the fastest sophomore in the state last year, Joseph Fontes. Fontes can fly! Serra should remember him from last year's JV game, as well. St. Mary's definitely has a huge depth in this position and for a new QB, it doesn't hurt. Serra returns First Team All WCAL and Serra’s Go-To WR from last season, Shane Villoroman, along with Leki's younger brother, 6'3" WR Patrick Nunn, who is garnering some national attention. St. Mary's might have the depth at this position and a very good 1-2 punch in Aponte and Tre Jenkins. But, Villoroman and Nunn will have a more experienced QB throwing to them. Edge Padres.

TE. Do either team utilize this position to receive the ball? Not much. Hence, ... Even

OL/DL. Both teams lost a bunch of players on their lines due to graduation. St. Mary's may have been hit the most with the departure of Popo Aumavae. Serra does return First Team WCAL, 6'3" 360lbs senior, Antonio Mafi, and 5'8" 200lbs junior, Caleb Tuimavave (who is listed at MLB but appears to be playing on the line in the latest scrimmage videos). St. Mary's counters with 6'6" 280lbs senior, Max Barth, and 6'3" 250lbs junior, Hunter Jones, and 5'7" 245lbs senior, Desean Brown. Although Serra's Mafi is going to be a force, the Rams have appear to have much more size/depth overall at this position. Edge Rams.

LB. Serra, based on scrimmage video, appear to be using #9, 6'3" 210lbs senior, Patrick Nunn, at the MLB position along with unlisted #41. The Rams return starter, 6'1" 205lbs senior, Harrison Heath, along with 6'0 200lbs senior, Chad Keamohuli-hearon, and may even play Dusty Frampton at LB. Rams Harrison Heath is pretty good. Edge Rams.

Secondary
. With the Jenkins brothers anchoring the secondary for the Rams, the Rams secondary is being touted as one of the best in the area. However, the Rams have a history of getting beat deep, and if there was an Achilles Heel for the Rams defense, I still believe it is their secondary, which has tendency to play the ball more and judge incorrectly the trajectory vs playing the player. I believe Serra's opportunity to steal this game away from the Rams will come in this area, even though last year, St. Mary's strength in this area led to 3 INT's, especially a key one when the Padres were close to scoring. The Padres WR's and seasoned QB may have more of advantage in this area vs the Rams secondary than the Rams newbie QB vs the Padres secondary. Edge Padres.

Special Teams. St. Mary's kicker graduated. So, the Rams will be breaking in a new kicker. Serra returns their kicker, in back-up QB, Jack Damelio. Serra's special teams last year looked great vs the Rams with Leki Nunn's return for TD, along with a recovered onsides kick. Even though Leki is gone, the Padres should still have a similar advantage they had last year. Edge Padres.

In summary, this game is going to be a shoot-out "again". Much will depend on which team's defense is able to make the stops and take advantage of any turnovers. But, as long as Dusty Frampton stays healthy, the Rams should be able to control the ground game and the clock. As much as St. Mary's lost players on the line to graduation, so did Serra. If newbie Ram QB can keep his composure and not turn the ball over and still make the necessary plays to his many WR's, along with anticipated Frampton dominating again, this game should result in a Rams victory. The Rams secondary will need to step up, as well. However, the Padres bring much talent/athleticism to the field to be competitive and could possibly walk away with the upset.


Good analysis...what a great early season matchup!!
 
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Hmm? I might have it all wrong as to who the QB for St. Mary's will be in this game. Latest Record article shows a picture of Marcus Aponte ready to throw the ball in practice. Could it be that Aponte will be the starting QB, afterall, and not the sophomore, Noah May, especially considering the Rams are very deep at the WR position? I guess we will find out on Saturday. I still give Serra the edge at QB position, since Bottari enters with more experience at this position and there is still a big question mark on how good the Rams QB will be, whoever it is. In any case, I am projecting St. Mary's 42 Serra 31 in a high scoring affair.
 
There is speculation on the Peninsula that Serra probably will use at least two QB's in this game. In the end, if Serra can't control the SM rushing attack, it will be a long bus ride home.
 
Very good write up and lots of good points.
To sum it up SM will likely have the better ground game with Frampton and a bigger line. Serra will likely have the better passing game. It will come down to the ground game and if Frampton has anywhere near the game as last year then SM wins [though Frampton scored 6 TD’s in last year’s game it could have just as well been 8 – he was that unstoppable]. The big question is Serra’s D-line.
 
I did not see him play during scrimmage vs Granite Bay. Coaches may be saving him for this game. Or maybe he is still recovering from getting hurt in the state championship game last year? But, that was more than 8 months ago. I am pretty sure he is alright and will be ready for Saturday's game. I have not seen any news locally stating otherwise. The big question for many Rams fans, awaiting to be answered on Saturday evening, is how will St. Mary's do with Jake Dunniway gone and Serra packing the box to stop Frampton. Will it be the sophomore, Noah May? Will it be Marcus Aponte under center? Both? I am leaning on both, just as I am hearing Serra may be using more than one QB, as well. How good are the defenses for both teams? Serra just doesn't bring a threat via the air. The Padre RB, Isiah Kendrick, averaged 9.1 ypc vs the Rams last year. Kendrick will be a force for Serra, too. This game is really anyone's to win or lose. We won't know until Saturday evening. Stay tuned.
 
The huge advantage SM has is the graduation of Leki Nunn. Serra will be much more conventional and easier to defend with him gone. And that definitely includes special teams. He was one of the best kick return guys Serra has seen since the Lynn Swann/Tom Scott days a half-century ago. That's how good Nunn was. Serra is a work in progress right now.
 
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The huge advantage SM has is the graduation of Leki Nunn. Serra will be much more conventional and easier to defend with him gone. And that definitely includes special teams. He was one of the best kick return guys Serra has seen since the Lynn Swann/Tom Scott days a half-century ago. That's how good Nunn was. Serra is a work in progress right now.
Very good point! Last year's game totally changed when Leki left the game.
 
Very good point! Last year's game totally changed when Leki left the game.

For those who have followed Serra football, the WCAL and the old CAL for decades, Nunn has only one multi-dimensional Padre peer: Lynn Swann. And Tom Scott is right up there as well. That's how great and ultra-dangerous Nunn was as a high school player. It remains to be seen how good Nunn will be in college. But his high school legacy is something else. Opposing coaches are thrilled that he has gone. Game-planning just got a whole lot simpler.
 
Great write up. I'm taking Serra in a close game,. I think both teams defenses will play better but got to take Serra due to inexperirnce of St Mary's QB. Serra will have time to have adjusted without Nunn. Losing Nunn in game changed the game, but starting and scheming before a game should change that some. St Mary's won't be as good as last season, but Serra could overall be better as as good even without Nunn.
 
Great write up. I'm taking Serra in a close game,. I think both teams defenses will play better but got to take Serra due to inexperirnce of St Mary's QB. Serra will have time to have adjusted without Nunn. Losing Nunn in game changed the game, but starting and scheming before a game should change that some. St Mary's won't be as good as last season, but Serra could overall be better as as good even without Nunn.

Very, very doubtful re Serra sans Nunn. Beating SF twice, beating Sanger on the road in NorCal finale and barely losing CIF bowl game in 2016 will be incredibly tough to replicate this year. Nunn's presence simply changed the game. He could pass, run, receive and return kicks with stunning aplomb and effectiveness. With him at QB, Serra was playing 11 on 10 because he basically took a defender away from base coverages. That will no longer be the case. Serra should be very good this year. But not as strong as in 2016. Nunn was that good. Prep players like him come along once in a great while. And, to think, he almost went to Sacred Heart Prep coming out of the eighth grade four years ago.
 
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Was very wrong about Serra and St Marys. Rams are a better team all around. The other receiver Marshall could be the second best player on the team. Big and fast. Serra laid an egg in the first half and mainly because their offense pretty much sucked. SM defense is really good, but Serra penalties and just bad play calling and executing and poor tackling and positing made this a route. This game reminds me of the defense DLS had against Bellevue Washington when the streak was ended. Poor defensive positioning and poor tackling. Seems after 3rd series, Serra was a different team on defense. Another half, but doubtful Serra will score more than a TD on the SM defense.
 
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Nice win for SM @bulldogmgc I took a gamble with Vacaville and SM this week in the pickem and it paid off big time, as of right now, if no scores are wrong, I've won the first pickem ever lol.
 
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Serra's defense was so focused on stopping Frampton, and they did a good job of doing it early on. I was pleasantly surprised at the performance by Rams sophomore QB, Noah May. But, I was most impressed by the Rams defense, most notably their secondary. As the Padres came into this game with more experience at QB and a notable WR corp, the Rams secondary zero'd on stopping the Padres aerial game, and their efforts were just as successful to the Padres run defense, but maybe even better.

At first, I was a bit confused as to who was who on the Rams team, with jersey #'s changing from originally listed on MaxPreps. #4, Andrew Jenkins, and #26 Heath both played great, getting a couple of picks. Heath nearly had two. The Rams secondary sure looked much better than they did in scrimmage vs Granite Bay. But, something is telling me that they were holding back, just like not seeing Frampton carry the rock in the GB scrimmage. The run D was as good as expected. Another pleasant Ram's surprise was their kicker, a 2nd year foreign exchange student from Hungary, who kicked the daylights out of the ball. Supposedly, he is an outstanding soccer player, too. Go figure. But, my favorite surprise was the play of the Ram's sophomore QB and the new Varsity speedy WR's in junior, Fontes and sophomore, Marshall. I knew about the speed of #17 Fontes, and thought the Serra secondary would have recognized him from the JV game last year. But, #3 Marshall, wow! Heard he is a highly regarded hurdler and he moved up to the Varsity basketball team last year, as a freshman, late in the season. There was so much talk and attention on WR's Aponte and Tre Jenkins III, that I think the Padres were also surprised about Fontes and Marshall. Back to the sophomore QB, Noah May. The kid is a stud. His #'s would have been even better if not for a few dropped passes which were right on target. He definitely does not like the confidence. Just hoping his injury he sustained in the 3rd quarter is not too serious, like a fracture or such. But, the screams he was yelling out when he got hurt has me and, I'm sure, his coaches and entire team quite concerned. The Rams might be still good with Aponte at QB, as adds the dimension of running the ball, like he demonstrated in the 2nd half. But, I can certainly see why Coach Franks was not hesitant at all to go with the sophomore to start the season. The future looks good for the Rams.

Sure, the hyped up Padre offense appeared to have disappointed, but this Rams defense IMHO had something to do with it. Indeed, it was a match-up issue, with the Rams speed being the difference maker.
 
Serra's defense was so focused on stopping Frampton, and they did a good job of doing it early on. I was pleasantly surprised at the performance by Rams sophomore QB, Noah May. But, I was most impressed by the Rams defense, most notably their secondary. As the Padres came into this game with more experience at QB and a notable WR corp, the Rams secondary zero'd on stopping the Padres aerial game, and their efforts were just as successful to the Padres run defense, but maybe even better.

At first, I was a bit confused as to who was who on the Rams team, with jersey #'s changing from originally listed on MaxPreps. #4, Andrew Jenkins, and #26 Heath both played great, getting a couple of picks. Heath nearly had two. The Rams secondary sure looked much better than they did in scrimmage vs Granite Bay. But, something is telling me that they were holding back, just like not seeing Frampton carry the rock in the GB scrimmage. The run D was as good as expected. Another pleasant Ram's surprise was their kicker, a 2nd year foreign exchange student from Hungary, who kicked the daylights out of the ball. Supposedly, he is an outstanding soccer player, too. Go figure. But, my favorite surprise was the play of the Ram's sophomore QB and the new Varsity speedy WR's in junior, Fontes and sophomore, Marshall. I knew about the speed of #17 Fontes, and thought the Serra secondary would have recognized him from the JV game last year. But, #3 Marshall, wow! Heard he is a highly regarded hurdler and he moved up to the Varsity basketball team last year, as a freshman, late in the season. There was so much talk and attention on WR's Aponte and Tre Jenkins III, that I think the Padres were also surprised about Fontes and Marshall. Back to the sophomore QB, Noah May. The kid is a stud. His #'s would have been even better if not for a few dropped passes which were right on target. He definitely does not like the confidence. Just hoping his injury he sustained in the 3rd quarter is not too serious, like a fracture or such. But, the screams he was yelling out when he got hurt has me and, I'm sure, his coaches and entire team quite concerned. The Rams might be still good with Aponte at QB, as adds the dimension of running the ball, like he demonstrated in the 2nd half. But, I can certainly see why Coach Franks was not hesitant at all to go with the sophomore to start the season. The future looks good for the Rams.

Sure, the hyped up Padre offense appeared to have disappointed, but this Rams defense IMHO had something to do with it. Indeed, it was a match-up issue, with the Rams speed being the difference maker.
Bulldog, something tells me we will be meeting again this year. Thoughts?
 
Bulldog, something tells me we will be meeting again this year. Thoughts?
Maybe. But, it is way too early to project. Don't want to make the same mistake of 2009, thinking it was going to be Grant vs St. Mary's, when neither team made it to the finals. There is still lots of football to be played. One game at a time, with next up St. Mary's vs Cardinal Newman, most likely without starting QB, Noah May. Folsom takes on Jesuit. Good luck!
 
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In case you missed it, here is some YouTube video coverage of the game from GetSportsFocus, including interviews at the end:


Noah May out for a few weeks with a dislocated shoulder. Too risky to re-injure if inserted too early, especially against Mater Dei. IMHO, I anticipate a return after the game vs Mater Dei when league play starts.
 
This week's NCP Pick'em Game of the Week is @ St. Mary's High School in Stockton, CA, on Saturday, 8/23, @ 7PM.

Both teams lose some key players to graduation. Both teams still return some key players from last year. Last year's game was a shootout in the first half until the Rams took over in the second half. A few big factors that changed the game (which was the biggest?):

1) Leki Nunn (Serra) exits the game in the 2nd half after injury sustained in long TD kickoff return.

2) Tipped interception just when the Padres were about to score, along with 2 more Ram INT's and 1 recovered fumble by the Rams.

3) Dusty Frampton (St. Mary's) - 265 yards rushing on 21 carries, along with 6 TD's.

Click here for highlights from 2016 meeting.

QB. St. Mary's will be without last year's QB, Jake Dunniway. While Serra will be without their starting QB from last year, Leki Nunn. For 2017, Serra has depth at the QB position, with Luke Bottari, who played much last year in Leki's absence, anticipated to start. I wouldn't be surprised if the other two QB's from Serra saw some playing time, as well. They are ALL very good. For St. Mary's, Jake Dunniway was just as key to St. Mary's wins, as was their RB, Dusty Frampton. Jake provided the balance needed to keep the opposing defense on their toes with his accuracy/consistency. In last year's game, Jake complete 12 of 16 passes for 231 yards and 2 TD's vs Serra. He was fortunate to gain much experience at the helm as a junior before finishing strong as a senior last year. This year, the Rams will be turning to a sophomore, Noah May, who's very first Varsity game will be against the WCAL powerhouse Serra Padres. Although Noah is just a sophomore and this will be his very first Varsity game, he has shined at practice, at 7-on-7's during the spring/summer, and did not look to bad in the scrimmage vs Granite Bay. However, experience at this position to start the season is just too big of a factor. Edge Padres. Correction: Edge Rams. Rams' sophomore Noah May started slow, but lit fire in the 2nd quarter. May finished with 228 yards passing, completing 10 of 16 attempts with three touchdowns and one lost fumble, before leaving late 3rd quarter due to injury sustained after trying to recover a fumble. Serra QB, Bottari, threw for 2 TD's in the 2nd half, but had 2 INT's and one lost fumble that were detrimental during the Rams scoring spree in the 2nd quarter.

RB. Fortunately for Noah, he will still have Dusty Frampton in the backfield. Serra returns their stud First Team WCAL RB, Isiah Kendrick. Kendrick was able to run for 82 yards on 9 carries vs the Rams defense last year, including one run for 42 yards and 1 TD. Considering the impact Frampton had last year vs Serra's defense, with 6 TD's ... Edge Rams. The Rams scoring in the 2nd quarter started with a 1-yard run by Dusty Frampton. Frampton had a slow start, but finished strong with a nice long run in the second half and did well to help milk the clock after the Rams had the big lead. Frampton finished with 24 carries for 122 yards and 1 TD. Serra had trouble running the ball, even when changing it up with the Wing-T formation. But, penalties did not help, either.

WR. Rookie QB Noah May will have some very good weapons to throw to that will much alleviate the pressure, especially in Marcus Aponte and Tre Jenkins. Marcus had 4 receptions for 55 yards in last year's game vs Serra, with seniors Dewey Cotton and Keaton Hampton also contributing with 7 total receptions for 166 yards together. Tre Jenkins was not a factor on offense vs Serra last year, but was so on defense. He later proved to be effective on offense, too, later in the 2016 season, especially vs Cathedral Catholic in the state championship game when he hauled in a very long pass from Dunniway to take the game into OT. In addition to Aponte and Jenkins, there is Tre's twin brother Andrew Jenkins along with a huge cast of junior WR's who will get an opportunity to show their stuff. The Padres should take note of Rams junior WR, Maurice "MS2" Saulsbury, who returned a kickoff return for TD in the JV game. MS2 is 6'1" and runs a 4.5 40. Other potential junior WR's who could contribute in Saturday's game could be Dumaurier "Yay Yay" Cotton, who is Dewey's younger brother, along with the fastest sophomore in the state last year, Joseph Fontes. Fontes can fly! Serra should remember him from last year's JV game, as well. St. Mary's definitely has a huge depth in this position and for a new QB, it doesn't hurt. Serra returns First Team All WCAL and Serra’s Go-To WR from last season, Shane Villoroman, along with Leki's younger brother, 6'3" WR Patrick Nunn, who is garnering some national attention. St. Mary's might have the depth at this position and a very good 1-2 punch in Aponte and Tre Jenkins. But, Villoroman and Nunn will have a more experienced QB throwing to them. Edge Padres. Correction: Edge Rams. The Rams WR's stole the show with Varsity rookies (track stars), junior - #17 Joe Fontes (1 TD) and sophomore - #3 Jamar Marshall (2 TD's), with just too much speed.

TE. Do either team utilize this position to receive the ball? Not much. Hence, ... Even

OL/DL. Both teams lost a bunch of players on their lines due to graduation. St. Mary's may have been hit the most with the departure of Popo Aumavae. Serra does return First Team WCAL, 6'3" 360lbs senior, Antonio Mafi, and 5'8" 200lbs junior, Caleb Tuimavave (who is listed at MLB but appears to be playing on the line in the latest scrimmage videos). St. Mary's counters with 6'6" 280lbs senior, Max Barth, and 6'3" 250lbs junior, Hunter Jones, and 5'7" 245lbs senior, Desean Brown. Although Serra's Mafi is going to be a force, the Rams have appear to have much more size/depth overall at this position. Edge Rams. Correction: Even. Serra's line was actually larger than St. Mary's, especially with Antonio Mafi. Mafi was instrumental in making big tackles early on limiting yardage for Frampton. But, St. Mary's held their own in limiting the Padre rushing game and providing good enough protection for May to throw the ball.

LB. Serra, based on scrimmage video, appear to be using #9, 6'3" 210lbs senior, Patrick Nunn, at the MLB position along with unlisted #41. The Rams return starter, 6'1" 205lbs senior, Harrison Heath, along with 6'0 200lbs senior, Chad Keamohuli-hearon, and may even play Dusty Frampton at LB. Rams Harrison Heath is pretty good. Edge Rams. Rams #26 Harrison Heath was key in the middle and contributed with an INT of his own and nearly had a second one before he dropped it when he hit the ground.

Secondary
. With the Jenkins brothers anchoring the secondary for the Rams, the Rams secondary is being touted as one of the best in the area. However, the Rams have a history of getting beat deep, and if there was an Achilles Heel for the Rams defense, I still believe it is their secondary, which has tendency to play the ball more and judge incorrectly the trajectory vs playing the player. I believe Serra's opportunity to steal this game away from the Rams will come in this area, even though last year, St. Mary's strength in this area led to 3 INT's, especially a key one when the Pa cdres were close to scoring. The Padres WR's and seasoned QB may have more of advantage in this area vs the Rams secondary than the Rams newbie QB vs the Padres secondary. Edge Padres. Correction: Edge Rams. The Rams secondary with big tackle by Jenkins that caused the Bottari fumble along with the INT's were too costly for the Padres. The Padres secondary was a big mismatch with the speed of the Rams WR's.

Special Teams. St. Mary's kicker graduated. So, the Rams will be breaking in a new kicker. Serra returns their kicker, in back-up QB, Jack Damelio. Serra's special teams last year looked great vs the Rams with Leki Nunn's return for TD, along with a recovered onsides kick. Even though Leki is gone, the Padres should still have a similar advantage they had last year. Edge Padres. Correction: Edge Rams. Rams newbie kicker Dominik Soos was outstanding with kickoffs in the endzone to force touchbacks and connecting on all extra points plus a couple of FG's from 30 and 34 yards out.

In summary, this game is going to be a shoot-out "again" Correction: Not a shoot-out, but a 2nd quarter blow-out. Much will depend on which team's defense is able to make the stops and take advantage of any turnovers. But, as long as Dusty Frampton stays healthy, the Rams should be able to control the ground game and the clock. As much as St. Mary's lost players on the line to graduation, so did Serra. If newbie Ram QB can keep his composure and not turn the ball over and still make the necessary plays to his many WR's, along with anticipated Frampton dominating again, this game should result in a Rams victory. The Rams secondary will need to step up, as well. However, the Padres bring much talent/athleticism to the field to be competitive and could possibly walk away with the upset.

Looking back ... my analysis was a "bit" off. LOL! Or it was a case where both teams zero'd into the perceived strengths of each other and somewhat negated most everything expected. Please refer to corrections/confirmations above (by clicking in the box).
 
You guys know how much I like St Mary's and how well there program is run. I'm not going to boast but I said they would spank Serra and they did. Against Newman they just need to run the ball and take care of it. Going to be hard for them to stop Frampton. (due to May Being out) Newman is a tough opponent and always plays St Mary's good but doesn't have the size/speed over 4 periods to win this game. They had there chance a few years back when Brookshire was stopped on the 1 as time expired. I would grow the natural "Grass" long this weekend at Newman. Like the old tricks at Notre Dame. Slow those Rams down.
 
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Rams' senior #8 - Marcus Aponte, considered the QB used in the Wildcat and will be starting in the absence of sophomore #10 - Noah May, can throw the ball. He is one heck of an athlete. Maybe he is not as much a pure pocket passer as Noah May, but Aponte started playing football at a young age in the QB position. He changed to WR after arriving at St. Mary's, since at the time as a sophomore he was the #3 QB, behind Jake Dunniway (junior at the time) and Tommy Alegre (senior at the time), and he was too good of an athlete not to use him in the game. Having Aponte under center takes away from him playing WR. But, as demonstrated this past Saturday, the Rams have a huge depth at the WR position. Looking forward to watching Aponte deliver some passes (on NFHS Network) to his speedy WR's, while also mixing it up running the ball and handing it off to #21 - Dusty Frampton. I wouldn't be surprised if the coaches pull Aponte from playing defense to lower the risk of injuring another QB. As a 3-year varsity player, there is no question he knows the playbook. Stay tuned.
 
Rams' senior #8 - Marcus Aponte, considered the QB used in the Wildcat and will be starting in the absence of sophomore #10 - Noah May, can throw the ball. He is one heck of an athlete. Maybe he is not as much a pure pocket passer as Noah May, but Aponte started playing football at a young age in the QB position. He changed to WR after arriving at St. Mary's, since at the time as a sophomore he was the #3 QB, behind Jake Dunniway (junior at the time) and Tommy Alegre (senior at the time), and he was too good of an athlete not to use him in the game. Having Aponte under center takes away from him playing WR. But, as demonstrated this past Saturday, the Rams have a huge depth at the WR position. Looking forward to watching Aponte deliver some passes (on NFHS Network) to his speedy WR's, while also mixing it up running the ball and handing it off to #21 - Dusty Frampton. I wouldn't be surprised if the coaches pull Aponte from playing defense to lower the risk of injuring another QB. As a 3-year varsity player, there is no question he knows the playbook. Stay tuned.
Good luck next week. Not sure where Newman even is but I expect a blowout.
 
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I like Newman, but they will have a very tough matchup on both sides of the ball. St Mary's defense was very impressive. Lots of speed and stout. Newman might fair better than Serra due to balance on offense (they might have more success passing the ball) but probably not much more. On defense, I see St Mary's having some big plays as well. Too many speedsters at WRs and their RB should have success. Serra d-line is pretty good and got push against St Mary's o-line as far as stopping the run. Serra neglected the pass and tackling. Will be interesting game, but I too think St Mary's will be a heavy favorite and even without May at QB.
 
Good luck next week. Not sure where Newman even is but I expect a blowout.
Cardinal Newman is in Santa Rosa, north of the Golden Gate Bridge. They have a very good program and they have played St. Mary's tough over the last few years. I am certain they will come to play/compete again. Good luck vs Jesuit!
 
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Don't forget to have a "sprinkler malfunction" that somehow muddies the field before kickoff. Lol.

That is the joke when Palma plays Hollister which is a huge rivalry. Even when it is 80 degrees all week before the game, the field seems to have uncut grass and is like a swamp. A few years ago this was the case and Palma was wearing regular cleats and couldn't get any footing and was slipping all over.
 
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Don't know where Newman is? Huh.... They have arguably the best D3 program in Norcal over the last 15 years. I would say them and Marin Catholic. There head coach Paul Cronin has been courted by multiple big schools in CA over the past decade but has stayed put. Newman has played St Mary's tougher than virtually any school the last 3 years. Lost by 1 2 years ago at the goal line as time expired. Last year they played St marys as good as anybody in norcal. It was basically an even game until middle of 3. This is the same st Mary's team that was up by 50 on Oak Ridge. Newman is good. Trust me they will show up.
 
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The huge advantage SM has is the graduation of Leki Nunn. Serra will be much more conventional and easier to defend with him gone. And that definitely includes special teams. He was one of the best kick return guys Serra has seen since the Lynn Swann/Tom Scott days a half-century ago. That's how good Nunn was. Serra is a work in progress right now.

I rest my case.
 
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Don't know where Newman is? Huh.... They have arguably the best D3 program in Norcal over the last 15 years. I would say them and Marin Catholic. There head coach Paul Cronin has been courted by multiple big schools in CA over the past decade but has stayed put. Newman has played St Mary's tougher than virtually any school the last 3 years. Lost by 1 2 years ago at the goal line as time expired. Last year they played St marys as good as anybody in norcal. It was basically an even game until middle of 3. This is the same st Mary's team that was up by 50 on Oak Ridge. Newman is good. Trust me they will show up.
In NCS...Palma and VC have better head to head against Newman when they faced each other. CCS kind of screwed their small schools with their playoff format until recently which forced them to play up in divisions. Newman is smaller than both if you double Palma (all boys). Newman is a really good program and consistent with exception of a few down years although when down they are still strong for their size. Central Catholic in SJ Sac may be the best small school in Norcal. They are tiny and consistently defeat larger power programs. Newman and Marin Catholic are consistently among the top schools for their size in the section.
 
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This should be an interesting match up. If St. Mary's QB cannot play, then the edge may go to Cardinal Newman.
 
This should be an interesting match up. If St. Mary's QB cannot play, then the edge may go to Cardinal Newman.
St. Mary's starting QB, Noah May, has a dislocated shoulder. He is expected to be out at least 3-4 weeks. He shared that he wants to be back for the Mater Dei game. But, Coach Franks responded with "we'll see." The kid is a trooper. However, to try and return too early only introduces the risk that the shoulder gets re-injured and will be worse, especially if going to play a team like Mater Dei. It is best he lets it heal fully so he will be ready for playoffs and not risk his high school playing career, being just a sophomore.

With Noah May out, Marcus Aponte is St. Mary's QB. Marcus is an athlete. He may not be as pure a pocket passer as May. Hence, this is why May earned the starting job. But, he brings a different element to the game and as a 3-year varsity player, he knows the playbook. The big question is, "Can he throw the ball?" We will find out on Friday night. I'm not so sure the edge will go to Cardinal Newman.

St. Mary's line may not be as big as last year, but they played well against Serra. Frampton had a modest game vs Serra, carrying the ball 24 times for 124 yards (longest run = 33 yards) and 1 TD. The Rams actually have more speed this year than last year. Can Cardinal Newman's secondary match up against the Rams speedy WR's? Aponte will not need to throw deep for his playmakers to make plays. Can Cardinal Newman's offense beat St. Mary's defense. St. Mary's had 2 INT's and 2 recovered fumbles that made a huge difference in their game vs Serra. Serra had only double-digits in total yards (I believe less than 50 yards) vs the Rams D in the first half, and I do not recall them crossing the 50 in the first half. Is Cardinal Newman's offense better than Serra's? How much better is Cardinal Newman than last year? St. Mary's may not be as good as last year's team (not the same size line or experience at QB, but faster WR's and secondary, and LB's still anchored by Harrison Heath). If Cardinal Newman has speed, I believe this will be a close game, especially with Noah May out of action. Else, it will be a match-up issue. Cardinal Newman has played St. Mary's tough over the last few years. I anticipate St. Mary's will do better this year on defense vs Cardinal Newman than last year. Not sure if CN's QB this year is as good as Brookshire, to give the SM defense much trouble, or if the Cardinals will be able to run against the SM defense. It doesn't help that SM's JV team beat CN 33-0 last year. However, I still anticipate another good game between these two teams, especially with it being at Cardinal Newman.

GO SM RAMS!!!
 
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With Noah May out, Marcus Aponte is St. Mary's QB. Marcus is an athlete. He may not be as pure a pocket passer as May. Hence, this is why May earned the starting job.

It will be very interesting to see what happens. Forcing him to throw intermediate routes would be a good idea for an opponent. That is the true test of QB's arm.
 
Although gathering stats from any Cardinal Newman is futile (no Stats from 2016 games or 2017 game available in MaxPreps), here is some video highlights from this year's Cardinal Newman vs Fortuna game found in YouTube:

 
As much as I would love to see Newman win, St Mary's is in a higher tier. I would say something like 42-21 is probably a realistic type game. Newman will stay tough until 3rd period is my opinion. Brookshire was a one man wrecking crew last year and he kept newman around. Honestly Aponte is every bit as good as May if not better. Plus you have Frampton. Very good football team. Rancho in the NBL this year might be a close matchup to St Mary's or some of the SFL type schools. I think they will begin to open up some eyes.
One thing is for sure. St Marys and Newman are about as quality as programs and people as there are in today's sports.
 
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