HS FOOT: Crespi standout Grasu out with knee injury

Bad news for Crespi: Hroniss Grasu, one of California's top offensive and defensive linemen, tore his MCL during practice Tuesday, and he is expected to be out a minimum of three to four weeks -- if surgery is not required,

"Someone tripped during a play and took my knee out. I immediately heard and felt two pops," Grasu said.

Crespi (3-3) plays host to St. Paul (3-3) of Santa Fe Springs tonight in a nonleague game.

"i have a lot of faith in my team. They have all stepped up since I've been out," Grasu said.

Grasu is a Daily News preseason all-area selection, and he has committed to Oregon.

He has 32 tackles and five sacks. He is also a key blocker for quarterback Bryan Bennett, who has also has committed to Oregon.

-- Gerry Gittelson