WATCHING OVER THE WILDCATS: Monrovia moves back to No. 1 in the Star-News rankings.
Staff file photo by Sarah Reingewirtz
STAR-NEWS FOOTBALL RANKINGS
1. Monrovia (2-1) — The next two weeks are huge for the Wildcats. If they can beat South Hills and St. Francis, the rest of the schedule sets up nicely for a chance at a regional state bowl. But first they must take care of the Huskies in s step-up game, which I think they can win.
2. St. Francis (2-1) — The Golden Knights still might be the area’s best, but drop after losing close to La Mirada. They take to the road for the third consecutive week, then get Monrovia at home.
3. San Marino (3-0 — The Titans haven’t been toughed in their three games. I don’t see that happening this week, or until they face Monrovia in Week 9.
4. Rio Hondo Prep (3-1) — The Kares are taking care of business, and look capable of another CIF-SS playoff run.
5. La Salle (4-0) — Do you believe in the Lancers now? I do, especially after beating rival Maranatha, 63-7. This team looks like the real deal, but the schedule gets tougher when league play begins in a few weeks.
6. Gabrielino (4-0) — The Eagles are also off to a surprising start, but like La Salle, will be challenged in league.
7. South Pasadena (2-1) — The Tigers rebounded nicely, and might be able to make some noise in the Rio Hondo.
8. Muir (0-3) — The Mustangs, who played three games they had no chance at winning, now begin their real season – Pacific League play. Despite the three-blowout losses, this team might be the favorite, although Burroughs will be the top challenger.
9. Pasadena Poly (3-0) — The Panthers are also taking care of business and could challenge Rio Hondo Prep in the Prep league.
10. San Gabriel (1-3) — The Matadors looked impressive in routing Baldwin Park. If they can get that consistent play on defense, they could run the table in the Almont League.
Others: 11. Pasadena (0-3), 12. Alhambra (2-2), 13. Duarte (1-2), 14. La Canada, (1-2), 15. Arcadia (0-3), 16. Rosemead (1-2), 17. Maranatha (0-4), 18. Temple City (1-3), 19. Flintridge Prep (1-2), 20. Marshall (2-2), 21. Bosco Tech (0-4), 22. Keppel (0-4), 23. Blair (0-4).