Start of final period: Serra 49, Pitt 21. Serra loaded (again) with a stable of quick, athletic skill guys. Padres don't go on long marches; they score on big plays on offense, defense and special teams. Similar to last year.
WCAL Football 2019-20 - NCP's All NorCal Team + SF Chron All Metro & Merc Teams
- Thread starter Rmbr26
- Start date
Serra's team speed is something else. Vs. Pitt, they used six DB's, two quick LB's and three linemen, daring the Pirates to run the ball. They chose to throw most of the time. It didn't work. Serra flooded the secondary with defenders, flummoxing the Pitt QB most of the afternoon. Whether this will work vs. Menlo-Atherton remains to be seen. M-A can run the ball and run it well. We'll see.
Another point re Serra: In the San Mateo heat, the Padres' offense wore out the Pitt defenders with sweeps, screens, long bombs, delays, etc. It's tiring to have to chase down (or not) the collection of sprinters Serra puts on the field. And the new, athletic QB, McLemore, was just fine running the show. Fast. Strong arm. Capable. Not in a special category at the position. But more than adequate out there. A nice 6-3 senior maestro directing the multi-faceted Serra offensive serenade. Oh, and Serra still has a great kicker, Lewis, now in his fourth varsity campaign.
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That might put a bit of temper to the serra runaway win.
One bright spot for Pitt: 6-7, 315 pound junior left tackle, Lange, did a very nice job on Serra's standout 6-6, 255 pound senior pass rusher, Mulani.
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McLemore threw for 243 yards and 4 TD’s, with 41 yards on the ground according to the Mercury News. Very good numbers.
After Week 1 Opening Games:
St. Ignatius 23 Palo Alto 7
Serra 58 Pittsburg 21
Valley Christian 23 Wilcox 13
Riordan 26 Terra Nova 24
Corona del Mar 42 St. Francis 14
Mitty 47 Palma 31
Menlo-Atherton 51 Bellarmine 14
Acalanes 44 Sacred Heart Cathedral 14
* WCAL teams 5-3 after Week #1
Points Scored:
1. Serra - 58
2. Mitty - 47
3. Riordan - 26
4. VC, S.I. - 23
6. SF, Bells, SHC - 14
Points Allowed:
1. S.I. - 7
2. VC - 13
3. Serra - 21
4. Riordan - 24
5. Mitty - 31
6. SF - 42
7. SHC - 44
8. Bells - 51
* Rmbr26 was 6 for 8 in predictions with the 2 incorrect being Pitt by slight edge over Serra and SHC by slight edge over Acalanes. Biggest surprise was Serra dismantling of Pitt after Pitt's previous week one win over St. Mary's of Stockton. Biggest disappointment was SHC 44-14 beat down at hands of an Acalanes team not considered to be exactly a powerhouse this season. Hopefully Irish will bounce back and Acalanes steam-rolls next opponent as well.
St. Ignatius 23 Palo Alto 7
Serra 58 Pittsburg 21
Valley Christian 23 Wilcox 13
Riordan 26 Terra Nova 24
Corona del Mar 42 St. Francis 14
Mitty 47 Palma 31
Menlo-Atherton 51 Bellarmine 14
Acalanes 44 Sacred Heart Cathedral 14
* WCAL teams 5-3 after Week #1
Points Scored:
1. Serra - 58
2. Mitty - 47
3. Riordan - 26
4. VC, S.I. - 23
6. SF, Bells, SHC - 14
Points Allowed:
1. S.I. - 7
2. VC - 13
3. Serra - 21
4. Riordan - 24
5. Mitty - 31
6. SF - 42
7. SHC - 44
8. Bells - 51
* Rmbr26 was 6 for 8 in predictions with the 2 incorrect being Pitt by slight edge over Serra and SHC by slight edge over Acalanes. Biggest surprise was Serra dismantling of Pitt after Pitt's previous week one win over St. Mary's of Stockton. Biggest disappointment was SHC 44-14 beat down at hands of an Acalanes team not considered to be exactly a powerhouse this season. Hopefully Irish will bounce back and Acalanes steam-rolls next opponent as well.
SI packed their stands for its game on Saturday. I understand this is driven by the administration to see more fan participation. Meanwhile, in Pacifica Friday night, the Crusader Nation looked to be 600+ strong filling up the visitor stands and were quite vocal in Riordan's and Coach Modeste's 2019 debut. That seaside town of Pacifica virtually filled their stands complete with marching band, color guard and cheerleaders to cheer on their Tigers. Friday Night Lights at its best.
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[B said:
Luv the report jordan - both Crusader Nation fans as well as an upsurge on the previous anemic S.I. football fan base. Riordan has got the momentum going in their favor - well at least until WCAL league starts [JK!! - hope Crusaders score a couple wins!]. Very positive news on St. Ignatius as the team always plays hard/well coached & I felt the last several seasons the team: ie: players and coaching staff deserved more support from admin & school student body. anyway very positive news and I had an inkling S.I. was up for the win against favored Paly [and yes Paly was favored by anyone you talked to [incl. Paly]. Great win to start season for both Crusaders & Wildcats
You are absolutely correct about the SI Administration making a big push for student body attendance at sporting events. I hope they can keep it up. Good to hear about the support for Riordan on Friday night down at TN . High school sports are always better with good crowds. On the flip side I was at Kezar Friday night and must say support for the Irish was lacking. Acalanes on the other hand, came into the City on a Friday night from Lafayette with great fan support.
I was there too. Irish fans all crowded behind the band so I had to move over. They didn't start cheering until late in the game. I miss the times they were more organized.
The coach mentioned that 33 players hadn't played Varsity football before. There's no substitute for experience.
St. Ignatius 23-7 over Palo Alto
Nice write up of S.I. and their biggest fan turn out in years. S.I.'s Teddye Buchanan had a monster game playing both QB & LB.
https://www.sfexaminer.com/sports/st-ignatius-revenge-tour-starts-with-a-win-over-palo-alto/
Nice write up of S.I. and their biggest fan turn out in years. S.I.'s Teddye Buchanan had a monster game playing both QB & LB.
https://www.sfexaminer.com/sports/st-ignatius-revenge-tour-starts-with-a-win-over-palo-alto/
After Week 1's Games...
* VC is status quo as the team to beat after solid win over Wilcox.
* Mitty status quo as the Monarchs pulled away from a tough Palma team.
* SF is status quo as well due to playing a top ranked SoCal powerhouse.
* Serra is well.. status quo as well as quality of Pitt team [ & St. Mary's is yet to be determined].
* SHC drops in ratings/rankings due to 44-14 loss to Acalanes in what was expected to be a close game.
* S.I. jumps in ratings/rankings after 23-7 win over Play [though early & Paly def not up to last seasons' standards.
* Riordan also improves in ratings/rankings with opening win 26-24 over Terra Nova.
* Bells suffer 51-14 annihilation at hands of CCS power M-A complete with running clock & hope dims for 2019...
Is there a "dark horse" for this season 2019? I usually have a pick that jumps out at me and I'd been thinking possibly the Irish could surprise, however a week later & a "different playing field" shall we say. Mitty I had high hopes for and Monarchs could rise to the occasion. S.I. & Riordan both show hope for fans and both with the same dilemma - finding a quality RB/run game that can be consistent against the better D's in WCAL. Until both these teams play another game we will not know the quality of those wins over Terra Nova & Paly. Likewise SHC needs a strong showing in their 2nd game. At this point the only 2 teams we can look to for any certainty are VC [at the top of the ladder] and the Bells [on bottom step of ladder]. Game of the week will be Serra vs M-A and we find out if the Padres are for real [was this Pitt team the real deal or the perverbial "Fudge-Hammer" that slipped by a weak St. Mary's team? Much less uncertainty with M-A as the Bears are the "real deal" with Troy Franklin to try to contain and a host of talented players - a better team than Pitt all the way around [Bells game with M-A was over at the 1/2 with score 48-14].
WHO is the WCAL "dark horse"??
* VC is status quo as the team to beat after solid win over Wilcox.
* Mitty status quo as the Monarchs pulled away from a tough Palma team.
* SF is status quo as well due to playing a top ranked SoCal powerhouse.
* Serra is well.. status quo as well as quality of Pitt team [ & St. Mary's is yet to be determined].
* SHC drops in ratings/rankings due to 44-14 loss to Acalanes in what was expected to be a close game.
* S.I. jumps in ratings/rankings after 23-7 win over Play [though early & Paly def not up to last seasons' standards.
* Riordan also improves in ratings/rankings with opening win 26-24 over Terra Nova.
* Bells suffer 51-14 annihilation at hands of CCS power M-A complete with running clock & hope dims for 2019...
Is there a "dark horse" for this season 2019? I usually have a pick that jumps out at me and I'd been thinking possibly the Irish could surprise, however a week later & a "different playing field" shall we say. Mitty I had high hopes for and Monarchs could rise to the occasion. S.I. & Riordan both show hope for fans and both with the same dilemma - finding a quality RB/run game that can be consistent against the better D's in WCAL. Until both these teams play another game we will not know the quality of those wins over Terra Nova & Paly. Likewise SHC needs a strong showing in their 2nd game. At this point the only 2 teams we can look to for any certainty are VC [at the top of the ladder] and the Bells [on bottom step of ladder]. Game of the week will be Serra vs M-A and we find out if the Padres are for real [was this Pitt team the real deal or the perverbial "Fudge-Hammer" that slipped by a weak St. Mary's team? Much less uncertainty with M-A as the Bears are the "real deal" with Troy Franklin to try to contain and a host of talented players - a better team than Pitt all the way around [Bells game with M-A was over at the 1/2 with score 48-14].
WHO is the WCAL "dark horse"??
Serra very impressive against Pitt. Looking forward to a great matchup with Serra and M-A @ Levi's. Serra and M-A skill players and lineman - probably the closest in terms of matching each other's talent and skill. This game will come down each team's coaching, prep and in-game decisions. Does anyone know if this game will be televised or streamed?
Rmbr26, nice breakdown!
Padres new QB1 looks real good. Regarding that impressive Serra win, I’m still on the fence as to how good that Pitt team is. Not to take anything away from Serra, that was a statement game indeed.
Next up...
Serra vs. Menlo Atherton (pick’em game of the week)
St. Francis vs. De La Salle
S.I. Vs S.H.P. (pick’em game)
V.C. vs. Pleasant Valley
Bellarmine vs. Clovis North
Mitty vs. Marin Catholic (pick’em game)
Riordan vs. Tamalpais
SHC vs. Palma
Padres new QB1 looks real good. Regarding that impressive Serra win, I’m still on the fence as to how good that Pitt team is. Not to take anything away from Serra, that was a statement game indeed.
- Pitt looked like a team that hadn’t played a live scrimmage/game despite the W over St. Mary’s.
- D looked tired, awful open field tackling, zero press in the box, chances for tfl’s and sacks.
- Pitt Secondary, 2nd and 19 first half (cover 2), 50 yd post strike for pay dirt.
Next up...
Serra vs. Menlo Atherton (pick’em game of the week)
St. Francis vs. De La Salle
S.I. Vs S.H.P. (pick’em game)
V.C. vs. Pleasant Valley
Bellarmine vs. Clovis North
Mitty vs. Marin Catholic (pick’em game)
Riordan vs. Tamalpais
SHC vs. Palma
Organized cheering section for four quarters? How about 40 years ago. Big crowds for SI/SHC game still, but consistent attendance, no. Most kids nowadays just go to Grove for post-game activity.
They didn't start cheering until the 4th quarter.
Yes, I remember 40+ years ago. The 1979 team didn't do much but they did tie SI 0-0.
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Irish had a chance to win that game with last second FG, but snap went over kickers head.
For sectional purposes, Irish lost that game in California tie-breaker. SI broke for 50 yard run on first play of California tie breaker, but game was recorded as a tie. It was the first time SH had not lost a WCAL game since the 1974 victory over Riordan. Their next win would be v. Riordan in 1982.
That 1979-80 SH team scored 3 points the entire league season. A fourth quarter field goal v. Riordan in last home game in the pouring rain. The players stormed the field. But the cheering section went NUTS! Even Riordan side applauded. Riordan won (I believe) 35-3. The goal those days in the cavernous Kezar was to make the cheers echo through the pedestrian walkways. It was pretty cool. Different environment with an all-boys school. Similar to Serra now.
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I was at that game. It was 24-3. A 44 yard FG by George Tsiplakos (sp). Don't recall any rain though.
You were at the game, wanted your unbiased input. Reading Kassel's game summary, it does not appear SH moved the ball at all. Dowling rushed 19 times for 80 but two of those were gains of 17 and 37 and then was sacked 6 times which counts against his rush total.
This appears to be the same issues I saw last year where his first read wasnt there, pocket collapsed and Dowling scrambles to try to make something out of nothing instead of just throwing it away. I saw that way too many times last year but that is expected from a sophomore QB. Had hope he learned or was coached to not fall into those habits from last year or at least this year coaching installed a check down into their plays.
Six total carries from Reagans was far less than I was expecting unless the rushing duties are spread out to 3 guys so the responsibility of moving the ball on the ground isnt on the shoulders of a sophomore.
Having said that, the defense ran out of gas in the fourth as it was a one score game going into the 4th. So it leads me to believe, offensively, they couldnt move the ball all game. I dont consider Acalanes a stout defensive team but if there are no weapons and you cant move the ball running behind Hester and Branch-Haynes, then theres a problem that doesnt bode well for the rest of the season.
SantaBall - no indication at this time that the Serra-MA game will be streamed and may have something to do with fact its being played at Levi Stadium[?]. ON NFHS it shows both the Serra-MA frosh and JV games will be streamed, but not the varsity game...
Th
Thanks, it seems there is hope that NFHS will stream if the host site doesn’t pack it up after the JV matchup. I wish I could get down there for this one, sure to be a great game.
MA WR has got some moves, lol
Thanks, it seems there is hope that NFHS will stream if the host site doesn’t pack it up after the JV matchup. I wish I could get down there for this one, sure to be a great game.
MA WR has got some moves, lol
I didn't get the impression that Dowling had to throw the ball away, he just didn't have time to either run or throw it away if he had to. The offensive line just collapsed too soon. The defense also got suckered more than once into screen plays. If it looks as though you're getting to the QB easily, the defender should step back instead and try to disrupt the pass.
Concur with Reagans needing more carries. Also, I didn't see Lamont Otis listed on the roster. Tyrice Ivy, Jr. should be available vs. Palma.
In any event, both OL and DL have a lot of practice ahead of them. There's just no substitute for experience.
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Speaking of field goals - in the VC-Wilcox game in which VC won 23-13 the kicker for VC Lucas Ramirez the WCAL Kicker of the Year in 2018 was 3/3 on FG's including one for 43 yards. This game was much closer than the score indicates and Ramirex accounted for 11 of VC's points. It was VC 13-7 at 1/2 and stayed that way until late in the 3rd quarter. On 3rd and 10 from VC's own 20 RB Isaiah McElvane caught a short pass and went 80 yards to increase the lease to 20-7. Wilcox scored another TD while Ramiez added his 3rd FG for the final 3 points for VC.
Last season Ramirex was 6/6 on FG's.
We should def see Wilcox again in post season playoffs.
Last season Ramirex was 6/6 on FG's.
We should def see Wilcox again in post season playoffs.
Upcoming Games:
Friday 9/6:
Clovis North vs Bellarmine 7:00 PM
St. Francis at De La Salle 7:30 PM
Sacred Heart Cathedral vs Palma at Kezar Stadium 7:00 PM
Serra vs Menlo-Atherton at Levi's Stadium 7:30 PM
Saturday 9/7:
Pleasant Valley - Chico at Valley Christian 7:00 PM
Mitty at Marin Catholic (Kentfield, 2:00PM St. Ignatius at Sacred Heart Prep 3:00PM Riordan at Tamalpais 2:00PM
* Projected Winners to follow -
Friday 9/6:
Clovis North vs Bellarmine 7:00 PM
St. Francis at De La Salle 7:30 PM
Sacred Heart Cathedral vs Palma at Kezar Stadium 7:00 PM
Serra vs Menlo-Atherton at Levi's Stadium 7:30 PM
Saturday 9/7:
Pleasant Valley - Chico at Valley Christian 7:00 PM
Mitty at Marin Catholic (Kentfield, 2:00PM St. Ignatius at Sacred Heart Prep 3:00PM Riordan at Tamalpais 2:00PM
* Projected Winners to follow -
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Bellarmine's recent football woes are well-documented. The program has been mired in a multi-year slump. Last week's 37-point defeat at the hands of Menlo-Atherton brought up a question: Was that the worst Bells' loss ever to a public school? The answer, courtesy of our vast and highly-paid research department located in the bowels of the Brisbane Main Library and Waste Water Treatment Plant: No. The worst such public pasting occurred in 1933 when the San Jose Jesuits got blasted by Salinas, 54-0. The last time Bellarmine was routed by more than 37 digits by a taxpayer-funded outfit was in 1958 vs. Santa Cruz; the final tally in that debacle was 39-0. So the burly Bears' late August bludgeoning of the Bells was the worst for the Catholics in 61 years vs. the no-tuition publics.
From this morning's SF Chronicle and includes its Bay Area Top 25
https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/Resilient-Riordan-begins-renewal-with-emotional-14407800.php
https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/Resilient-Riordan-begins-renewal-with-emotional-14407800.php
SF Chronicle's Top 25 Roundup:
https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/Chronicle-top-25-football-St-Ignatius-and-14407542.php?psid=dUxqF
https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/Chronicle-top-25-football-St-Ignatius-and-14407542.php?psid=dUxqF
Question re: Serra - what was the final verdict on Dylan Eaton? Was the speedy athlete lost for the season or possibility of a return? Eaton finished 4th in last seasons' 100M and was the 2nd fastest junior. The other junior who won the 100M was Devan Vanderbilt the current RB for VC who won the league rushing title for 2018. That would make Dylan Eaton the 2nd fastest player in WCAL followed by Nate Sanchez also of Serra also in the finals of that 100M. Serra's Vince Poni RB/S was the 2nd fastest soph in the JV 100M last season. Eaton would have been the proverbial "icing on the cake" in regards to Serra's stable of "burners" this season.
Speaking of speed, when does the Woodside transfer WR David Silk become eligible to play & will he work his way into the Padre rotation of WR's?
Speaking of speed, when does the Woodside transfer WR David Silk become eligible to play & will he work his way into the Padre rotation of WR's?
Just happened to see this about a past teacher at Serra and the chartered dive boat fire off SoCal...
Serra High School@SerraSanMateo
It is with heavy hearts that we remember a wonderful science teacher, Scott Chan, who taught physics at Serra from 2011-2014. Scott and his daughter lost their lives in the tragic boat fire off the coast of Santa Barbara. We will keep Scott's family in our thoughts and prayers.
1h
Serra High School@SerraSanMateo
It is with heavy hearts that we remember a wonderful science teacher, Scott Chan, who taught physics at Serra from 2011-2014. Scott and his daughter lost their lives in the tragic boat fire off the coast of Santa Barbara. We will keep Scott's family in our thoughts and prayers.
1h
Serra Football at Levi's® Stadium THIS FRIDAY!
The Padres will play football at Levi's® Stadium on Friday, September 6!
The double-header will feature San Benito vs. Wilcox at 5 p.m., followed by Serra vs. Menlo-Atherton at 7:30 p.m. General admission tickets in the lower bowl of Levi's Stadium are $25 -- CLICK HERE to purchase tickets and cheer on our Padres!
Levi's® Stadium prohibits all bags, backpacks and other carriers from being brought into the stadium with the following exceptions: Approved clear bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12." These include the following clear bags:
· Clear backpacks
· Clear fanny packs
· Clear bags
· Clear purses
· One-gallon clear plastic zip lock type bags
· Small clutch bag the size of an adult hand (4.5" x 6.5")
· Seat cushion
The Padres will play football at Levi's® Stadium on Friday, September 6!
The double-header will feature San Benito vs. Wilcox at 5 p.m., followed by Serra vs. Menlo-Atherton at 7:30 p.m. General admission tickets in the lower bowl of Levi's Stadium are $25 -- CLICK HERE to purchase tickets and cheer on our Padres!
Levi's® Stadium prohibits all bags, backpacks and other carriers from being brought into the stadium with the following exceptions: Approved clear bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12." These include the following clear bags:
· Clear backpacks
· Clear fanny packs
· Clear bags
· Clear purses
· One-gallon clear plastic zip lock type bags
· Small clutch bag the size of an adult hand (4.5" x 6.5")
· Seat cushion
Friday 9/6:
Clovis North vs Bellarmine 7:00 PM
St. Francis at De La Salle 7:30 PM
Sacred Heart Cathedral vs Palma at Kezar Stadium 7:00 PM
Serra vs Menlo-Atherton at Levi's Stadium 7:30 PM
Saturday 9/7:
Pleasant Valley - Chico at Valley Christian 7:00 PM
Mitty at Marin Catholic (Kentfield, 2:00PM
St. Ignatius at Sacred Heart Prep 3:00PM
Riordan at Tamalpais 2:00PM
Game Projections:
* Bells 0-1 host Clovis North 2-0 in San Jose. Clovis North won its first game 34-0 vs Pitman and won its 2nd game 10-0 over Sunnyside, neither of which are powerhouse teams and neither is Clovis North. Unfortunately the Bells are no powerhouse as well. The Bells were able to score 2 TD’s in the 51-14 route by M-A last week, so hopefully they’ll be able to move the ball vs Clovis North, while CN is 44-0 in scoring and defense against its first 2 opponents. Bells must get up early and have better pass D than against M-A.
Projection: Clovis North 14-7
* St. Francis 0-1 travels to Spartanville to take on DLS 1-1. The Spartans lost 24-14 to St. Thomas Aquinas, one of the top teams in the country and then returned to their normal routine by blasting a NorCal team Central Catholic 49-14. The Lancers dropped their opener 42-14 at home to a Corona Del Mar team that is one of the top 15 teams in CA. Unfortunately for SF we know that De La Salle is a better team than Corona Del Mar and that spells trouble for the Lancers. SF had a porous pass defense vs Corona Del Mar and the offense showed an inability to move the ball. Things do not get any easier for SF and this game will not be as close as last years’ contest between the 2 teams – won by DLS by 33-15.
Projection: DLS 48-7
* SHC 0-1 hosts Palma 0-1 at Kezar. Palma dropped their opener by 47-31 to Mitty while the Irish had a disappointing showing in a 44-14 loss to Acalanes. Last season SHC played Palma down to the wire losing by 17-14, though this game may not be as close. Palma has perhaps the top RB in CCS in Anthony Villagas whom Mitty struggled to contain throughout the game [perhaps failed to contain is more accurate]. Is SHC’s D as good as Mitty’s D? That question will be answered quickly against Palma’s run game Friday night. One thing is certain – the SHC Irish must be able to move the ball against Palma to keep the ball away from their offense & Villagas and that means playing all 4 quarters on D.
Projection: Palma 35-28
Serra 1-0 vs Menlo-Atherton 1-0 at Levi Stadium. Serra coming off an impressive win over Pitt and M-A an easy blow-out of the Bells. M-A is coming off a state title last season and Serra looks to be a completely different team from last season. The 2 teams are ranked about the same depending on whose ranking you read & both teams have stand-out players. Serra must contain M-A’s Troy Franklin and put pressure on M-A’s QB Matt MacLeod who has a very quick release on passing downs. M-A must contain an assortment of speedy athletes for Serra. Who can outscore who & which team has the better D? A difficult game to project for sure. M-A is the real deal, but is Serra? [as both Pitt and the St. Mary’s team Pitt beat are still undetermined as opponents]. Serra’s D looked very good vs Pitt’s passing game while the Bells passing game never threatened M-A.
Projection: Serra 31-21
* VC 1-0 vs Pleasant Valley 1-1. VC has the big win over Wilcox while Pleasant Valley has a win over Yuba City 17-14 and a respectable loss to Del Oro 32-19. While PV appears respectable the Warrior’s appear to be at a different level and Pleasant Valley’s challenge will be to slow down the VC ground game which is easier said than done.
Projection: VC 28-7
* Mitty 1-0 at Marin Catholic 1-1. Mitty has the impressive 49-31 win over Palma while MC had a 42-6 win over El Cerrito and then a 19-7 loss to a very good Mack team of Oakland. These 2 teams are rated about even and the score expected to be close – so a “pick ‘em” game. Despite the loss to McClymonds this is a very solid Marin Catholic team with a sturdy defense which will test Shamir Bey perhaps more so than Palma. Marin Catholic is better than Palma and this should be a lower scoring game. It will be up to the Mitty offense to outscore Marin Catholic.
Projection: Mitty 28-21
* S.I. 1-0 at SHP 1-0 with S.I. coming off a 23-7 win over Paly while SHP dispatched Carlmont by 28-7. So who is better Paly or Carlmont? Looking at the 2 teams it looks as though Palo Alto is the better of the 2, but whether that translates into anything is open to discussion. SHP largely a passing team with one featured RB being Moimoi and a host of other RB’s getting a few carries. SHP’s QB Purcell passed at will against Carlmont and spread the ball around to 7 receivers – QB Purcell was 15/17 for 253 yards. S.I. must pressure Purcell on passing downs as the Gators averaged less than 4 YPC rushing against a suspect Carlmont D. While a close game is expected I liked S.I. last week as the underdog and the win should give the Wildcats some added confidance.
Projection: S.I. 27-21
* Riordan 1-0 at Tamalpais 2-0 with Riordan prevailing over Terra Nova 26-24 and Tamalpais winning over Petaluma 27-19 and rolling St. Mary’s-Albany 48-13. Petaluma is primarily a passing team and the combination to watch is QB Aiden Newell to WR Ben Reade who have combined for 5 TD’s in their first 2 games – WR Reade is the primary go-to WR so Crusaders’ should shift help to his side of field. It will be all about putting pressure on QB Newell as he is an accurate passer completing a high percentage of his passes. The “new” Crusaders’ opening with a win look to make it 2 in a row and it’s all about limiting mistakes, executing cleanly and being able to run the ball. Will the Crusaders get another big performance from junior RB Fazon Ruth? The Crusaders had 367 yards rushing and 0 yards passing last week and will need a similar performance. Another ‘pick ‘em” game and too close to call [but I’ll give it a shot anyways..].
Projection: Riordan 26-21
Clovis North vs Bellarmine 7:00 PM
St. Francis at De La Salle 7:30 PM
Sacred Heart Cathedral vs Palma at Kezar Stadium 7:00 PM
Serra vs Menlo-Atherton at Levi's Stadium 7:30 PM
Saturday 9/7:
Pleasant Valley - Chico at Valley Christian 7:00 PM
Mitty at Marin Catholic (Kentfield, 2:00PM
St. Ignatius at Sacred Heart Prep 3:00PM
Riordan at Tamalpais 2:00PM
Game Projections:
* Bells 0-1 host Clovis North 2-0 in San Jose. Clovis North won its first game 34-0 vs Pitman and won its 2nd game 10-0 over Sunnyside, neither of which are powerhouse teams and neither is Clovis North. Unfortunately the Bells are no powerhouse as well. The Bells were able to score 2 TD’s in the 51-14 route by M-A last week, so hopefully they’ll be able to move the ball vs Clovis North, while CN is 44-0 in scoring and defense against its first 2 opponents. Bells must get up early and have better pass D than against M-A.
Projection: Clovis North 14-7
* St. Francis 0-1 travels to Spartanville to take on DLS 1-1. The Spartans lost 24-14 to St. Thomas Aquinas, one of the top teams in the country and then returned to their normal routine by blasting a NorCal team Central Catholic 49-14. The Lancers dropped their opener 42-14 at home to a Corona Del Mar team that is one of the top 15 teams in CA. Unfortunately for SF we know that De La Salle is a better team than Corona Del Mar and that spells trouble for the Lancers. SF had a porous pass defense vs Corona Del Mar and the offense showed an inability to move the ball. Things do not get any easier for SF and this game will not be as close as last years’ contest between the 2 teams – won by DLS by 33-15.
Projection: DLS 48-7
* SHC 0-1 hosts Palma 0-1 at Kezar. Palma dropped their opener by 47-31 to Mitty while the Irish had a disappointing showing in a 44-14 loss to Acalanes. Last season SHC played Palma down to the wire losing by 17-14, though this game may not be as close. Palma has perhaps the top RB in CCS in Anthony Villagas whom Mitty struggled to contain throughout the game [perhaps failed to contain is more accurate]. Is SHC’s D as good as Mitty’s D? That question will be answered quickly against Palma’s run game Friday night. One thing is certain – the SHC Irish must be able to move the ball against Palma to keep the ball away from their offense & Villagas and that means playing all 4 quarters on D.
Projection: Palma 35-28
Serra 1-0 vs Menlo-Atherton 1-0 at Levi Stadium. Serra coming off an impressive win over Pitt and M-A an easy blow-out of the Bells. M-A is coming off a state title last season and Serra looks to be a completely different team from last season. The 2 teams are ranked about the same depending on whose ranking you read & both teams have stand-out players. Serra must contain M-A’s Troy Franklin and put pressure on M-A’s QB Matt MacLeod who has a very quick release on passing downs. M-A must contain an assortment of speedy athletes for Serra. Who can outscore who & which team has the better D? A difficult game to project for sure. M-A is the real deal, but is Serra? [as both Pitt and the St. Mary’s team Pitt beat are still undetermined as opponents]. Serra’s D looked very good vs Pitt’s passing game while the Bells passing game never threatened M-A.
Projection: Serra 31-21
* VC 1-0 vs Pleasant Valley 1-1. VC has the big win over Wilcox while Pleasant Valley has a win over Yuba City 17-14 and a respectable loss to Del Oro 32-19. While PV appears respectable the Warrior’s appear to be at a different level and Pleasant Valley’s challenge will be to slow down the VC ground game which is easier said than done.
Projection: VC 28-7
* Mitty 1-0 at Marin Catholic 1-1. Mitty has the impressive 49-31 win over Palma while MC had a 42-6 win over El Cerrito and then a 19-7 loss to a very good Mack team of Oakland. These 2 teams are rated about even and the score expected to be close – so a “pick ‘em” game. Despite the loss to McClymonds this is a very solid Marin Catholic team with a sturdy defense which will test Shamir Bey perhaps more so than Palma. Marin Catholic is better than Palma and this should be a lower scoring game. It will be up to the Mitty offense to outscore Marin Catholic.
Projection: Mitty 28-21
* S.I. 1-0 at SHP 1-0 with S.I. coming off a 23-7 win over Paly while SHP dispatched Carlmont by 28-7. So who is better Paly or Carlmont? Looking at the 2 teams it looks as though Palo Alto is the better of the 2, but whether that translates into anything is open to discussion. SHP largely a passing team with one featured RB being Moimoi and a host of other RB’s getting a few carries. SHP’s QB Purcell passed at will against Carlmont and spread the ball around to 7 receivers – QB Purcell was 15/17 for 253 yards. S.I. must pressure Purcell on passing downs as the Gators averaged less than 4 YPC rushing against a suspect Carlmont D. While a close game is expected I liked S.I. last week as the underdog and the win should give the Wildcats some added confidance.
Projection: S.I. 27-21
* Riordan 1-0 at Tamalpais 2-0 with Riordan prevailing over Terra Nova 26-24 and Tamalpais winning over Petaluma 27-19 and rolling St. Mary’s-Albany 48-13. Petaluma is primarily a passing team and the combination to watch is QB Aiden Newell to WR Ben Reade who have combined for 5 TD’s in their first 2 games – WR Reade is the primary go-to WR so Crusaders’ should shift help to his side of field. It will be all about putting pressure on QB Newell as he is an accurate passer completing a high percentage of his passes. The “new” Crusaders’ opening with a win look to make it 2 in a row and it’s all about limiting mistakes, executing cleanly and being able to run the ball. Will the Crusaders get another big performance from junior RB Fazon Ruth? The Crusaders had 367 yards rushing and 0 yards passing last week and will need a similar performance. Another ‘pick ‘em” game and too close to call [but I’ll give it a shot anyways..].
Projection: Riordan 26-21
On a side note regarding Serra's Lynn Swann and being compared to M-A's Troy Franklin when the Padres face the Menlo-Atherton Bears' tomorrow evening in one of the top games in NorCal this week. I posted some trivia about Serra's Lynn Swann on another post & received muliple "likes" so will repost it here for anyone who may be interested.
The other well-known poster had noted M-A's Troy Franklin was 6'2 in relation to Lynn Swann's 6'1. For those younger FB fans an FYI: Lynn Swann is a legend at Serra along with Tom Scott and Jesse Freitas Jr. The 3 played together in 1968 and all 3 players went to the pro's - Swann as an All-American from USC was the #1 pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers' and a Super Bowl MVP for his circus catches, while Freitas Jr. went to the San Diego Chargers and Tom Scott opted for the Canadian League where he became a 2-time league MVP [similar to New Englands Julian Edelman is best I can describe Scott]. Here is the post:
"You are being very generous with Lynn Swann's height Col as I believe in person Lynn is about 5'11 [often rosters/programs add an inch or 2 to make players seem bigger - at least that's the only explanation.
More "Swannie" trivia..
* Swann if memory serves me correctly [not always the case these days] was All-County in Basketball as well.
* Swann ran track and won the CA state long jump with a leap of 24'10" [does not qualify as a WCAL record as didn't take place in a league meet at that time].
* Swann beat his brother Calvin from SM High in the San Mateo County Track Meet in the 100 yard dash at 9.9 secs - converted to 100M time that would be between 10.8-10.9 which would make Swannie the fastest player in the WCAL this season,
Anyone know how fast Troy Franklin is? Swann's speed AND leaping ability would be difficult to match...
And on a final note some say Tom Scott was actually the faster of the 2 Serra WR's as Scott went to the state meet in the 100 while Swann competed in the long jump [no time available on Scott].."
And one final fact only old geezers of Serra would know [Rmbr26 & Colhenrylives, Lol!]. As a boy Lynn Swann took ballet lessons and later credited it for his agility and ability to twist his body while concentrating on the flight of the football - well at least that's how I remember the tale...
The other well-known poster had noted M-A's Troy Franklin was 6'2 in relation to Lynn Swann's 6'1. For those younger FB fans an FYI: Lynn Swann is a legend at Serra along with Tom Scott and Jesse Freitas Jr. The 3 played together in 1968 and all 3 players went to the pro's - Swann as an All-American from USC was the #1 pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers' and a Super Bowl MVP for his circus catches, while Freitas Jr. went to the San Diego Chargers and Tom Scott opted for the Canadian League where he became a 2-time league MVP [similar to New Englands Julian Edelman is best I can describe Scott]. Here is the post:
"You are being very generous with Lynn Swann's height Col as I believe in person Lynn is about 5'11 [often rosters/programs add an inch or 2 to make players seem bigger - at least that's the only explanation.
More "Swannie" trivia..
* Swann if memory serves me correctly [not always the case these days] was All-County in Basketball as well.
* Swann ran track and won the CA state long jump with a leap of 24'10" [does not qualify as a WCAL record as didn't take place in a league meet at that time].
* Swann beat his brother Calvin from SM High in the San Mateo County Track Meet in the 100 yard dash at 9.9 secs - converted to 100M time that would be between 10.8-10.9 which would make Swannie the fastest player in the WCAL this season,
Anyone know how fast Troy Franklin is? Swann's speed AND leaping ability would be difficult to match...
And on a final note some say Tom Scott was actually the faster of the 2 Serra WR's as Scott went to the state meet in the 100 while Swann competed in the long jump [no time available on Scott].."
And one final fact only old geezers of Serra would know [Rmbr26 & Colhenrylives, Lol!]. As a boy Lynn Swann took ballet lessons and later credited it for his agility and ability to twist his body while concentrating on the flight of the football - well at least that's how I remember the tale...
