Keepin' it Real

Lost in the hubbub last night was the fact that Redlands East Valley defensive end Andrew Hudson committed to the University of Washington Friday afternoon. Hudson, a three-star recruit by Rivals.com and Scout.com, chose the Huskies over a final three that included Arizona and Oregon State.

"I'm just happy to have this over," Hudson said after REV's 28-20 win over Miller last night. "I know where I'm going to college and it's a great feeling."

Hudson joins a virtual army of REV players that have made the trip up to Seattle, as he joins sophomore quarterback Ronnie Fouch, sophomore defensive back Marquis Persley and redshirt freshman running back Chris Polk on the Huskies. I'm at the Rose Bowl right now to work on a story on Polk and Fouch (Persley didn't make the trip) so this adds another possible angle.

Posted by TJ Berka at 11:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At the University of Redlands right now after watching REV beat Miller in an emotion-filled game. Will update more after I head back to the office.

Apple Valley 49, Sultana 6
Aquinas 34, Western Christian 7
Arroyo Valley 47, San Bernardino 15
Cajon 50, Pacific 0
Carter 53, Fontana 27
Chaffey 22, Garey 7
Chino Hills 14, Ayala 7
Claremont 45, Alta Loma 21
Colony 42, Don Lugo 10
Colton 42, San Gorgonio 19
Kaiser 41, Bloomington 0
Los Osos 58, Etiwanda 35
Montclair 40, Ontario 15
Oak Hills 42, Murrieta Mesa 0
Ontario Christian 49, Arrowhead Christian 10
Rancho Cucamonga 34, Upland 31
Redlands 31, Rialto 14
Redlands East Valley 28, Miller 20
Rim of the World 34, Hesperia 0
Riverside Norte Vista 44, Summit 29
Riverside Patriot 52, Jurupa Valley 7
Serrano 29, Ridgecrest Burroughs 12
Silverado 25, Granite Hills 14
Victor Valley 29, Barstow 28
Yucaipa 50, Eisenhower 41

Posted by TJ Berka at 10:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Why do I keeping picking college football games despite being bad at it? For the laughs of course, and to show you guys that I'm part human. Not a great week or season for me thus far. Thankfully I'm better at the high school picks.

USC (-10) at Arizona State
Will the Trojans slog around after their lopsided loss to Oregon? Or will they come out inspired and rough up a mediocre Arizona State team? This game is inexplicably the sixth road game already for the Trojans. Whoever made their schedule had a sick sense of humor in my opinion. I expect USC to go through the motions a bit but do enough to win.
Pick: Arizona State

Washington (+5.5) at UCLA
I'll be at this game tomorrow working on a story about the Huskies' REV triumvirate, especially RB Chris Polk. UCLA showed some spunk last week hanging with Oregon State in Corvallis and with Washington's struggles on the road, the Bruins may be able to break through and get that first Pac-10 win. I have a hard time picking them to cover though.
Pick: Washington

Oregon (-7) at Stanford
I see this as the classic letdown game. The Ducks have been the toast of the Pacific Northwest after their savage beatdown of USC last week and its going to be hard for them to rebound and come out hungry against a sneaky-good Stanford team. Ultimately, Oregon should win this, but don't be surprised if the Cardinal put some fear in them.
Pick: Stanford

Oregon State (+7) at California
This is the time of year where the Beavers start to roll. But then again, Cal seems to have overcome its late September troubles and is rolling. This is a huge game for Cal QB Kevin Riley, who had a huge brain fart in the final seconds two years ago which prevented the then-No. 1 Golden Bears from kicking a game-tying field goal in a 31-28 loss. Riley gets his revenge.
Pick: California

Washington State (+32) at Arizona
Another big spread for the Cougars to try to stay within. Honestly, anyone who has taken the Cougars and the ridiculous amounts of points they receive from Vegas every week is making a huge profit. Wazzu is bad, but not bad enough. It'll be the same type deal this week, as Arizona wins easily but the Cougars win money for everyone who bet them.
Pick: Washington State

LSU (+7.5) at Alabama
I'm conflicted on this one. On one hand, I feel that LSU is slightly overrated and not really that good. On the other hand, Alabama seems ripe to be messed with a bit, as evidenced by their near-miss against Tennessee. I think the Tide wins, but the LSU defense keeps this low-scoring and close.
Pick: LSU

Oklahoma (-4.5) at Nebraska
This used to be the marquee rivalry in the Big 8. However, the Big 12 for some reason decided to make this rivalry a two-years-on, two-years-off affair, pretty much ruining one of the best matchups. It also doesn't help that they haven't been good at the same time since the 1980s. Both of these teams are very good defensively, but only one is competent offensively. That will be the difference.
Pick: Oklahoma

Ohio State (+5.5) at Penn State
The Nittany Lions come into this game red-hot, having won their last five games since dropping their conference opener to Iowa. The Buckeyes have looked better on offense the last two weeks, but then again, that's not hard against Minnesota and New Mexico State. I have a hard time seeing this Ohio State group winning at Happy Valley.
Pick: Penn State

Connecticut (+17) at Cincinnati
It's been a brutal past few weeks for the Huskies. One of their starting safeties gets stabbed and dies in tragic fashion, UConn loses three games in a row, two in heartbreaking, last-minute fashion. And now they get a Bearcats team that's been killing everything in its path. I don't see this going well for UConn.
Pick: Cincinnati

Duke (+10) at North Carolina
No, this is not a mistake. And no, this is not a basketball game. In fact, this is a surprisingly competitive football game, as the Blue Devils are 3-1 in the ACC and actually tied for first in the loser's column in the ACC Coastal Division. UNC was disappointing under Butch Davis, but is fresh off an upset of Va. Tech last week. I see UNC's talent ultimately winning out, but Duke is going to make this a game.
Pick: Duke

Last week: 4-6
Overall: 43-45-2

Posted by TJ Berka at 5:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Misfired on Upland and Chino Hills last week, among others. And Ayala of course.

Miller at Redlands East Valley
At halftime last week, it looked like we were in for another Miller-REV undefeated clash in the CBL. Then Redlands decided to ruin it by erasing a 20-point deficit to tip the Rebels 28-27. But despite that, this is a very important game in the CBL. The Wildcats lost to Miller 18-15 to give up the CBL title last season and are intent on getting some sort of payback. They will.
Redlands East Valley 34, Miller 17

Rancho Cucamonga at Upland
The rematch of last year's Central Division championship game is basically an elimination game as far as the Baseline League title is concerned. Both have stumbled in recent upsets, with the Cougars falling to Los Osos and Upland losing to Etiwanda and it will be interesting to see which one steps up to the plate. I will go with the defending champs to put a complete game.
Rancho Cucamonga 21, Upland 15

Los Osos at Etiwanda
Gotta do the Baseline double dip this week. While the teams in the above game wonder what might have been, these teams are pointing and laughing at what has become. Etiwanda is the only undefeated team left and can put a hammerlock on things with a win and help, while Los Osos might be the most improved them from game 1 to game 8 in the county. I'll go with the Eagles in a thriller.
Etiwanda 27, Los Osos 23

Colton at San Gorgonio
Normally there might be a letdown for the Yellowjackets after a win like they had against Cajon, as San G is struggling in an injury-filled 2-6 season. But the Spartans upset Colton last year at Colton, leapfrogging the Yellowjackets for second place in league. It's doubtful that Colton has forgotten about that.
Colton 40, San Gorgonio 12

Chino Hills at Ayala
Ah yes, the battle of Chino Hills. There's a lot more at stake than just bragging rights or "The Bone" as both of these teams need to right the ship after upset losses a week ago. The loser of this, especially if its Ayala, will be in trouble, as there's no guarantee than the fourth-place team from the Sierra League will get the Central Division at-large bid. The Huskies seem more battle-tested than Ayala, so that's who I'll go with.
Chino Hills 23, Ayala 13

Silverado at Granite Hills
Silverado is arguably the hottest team in the county without the words "East Valley" in their school name, having won seven in a row to take control of the Desert Sky League. Granite Hills has already had its best year in school history and an upset win here would do wonders for its playoff chances. However, I think Silverado's roll is too much for the Cougars to slow.
Silverado 31, Granite Hills 16

Don Lugo at Colony
The Conquistadores have two legitimate Division I players in George Uko and Steven Bethley. Colony has an entire team of studs it seems. The Titans have been marching over everyone in their path since an opening-week loss to Los Osos and it seems doubtful that Don Lugo can prevent that from happening to them.
Colony 34, Don Lugo 10

Riverside Norte Vista at Summit
This game is basically for second place, as Kaiser as the Sunkist League title basically in its grasp (What else is new) after beating these teams the last two weeks. Of the two games with Kaiser, Summit's was the more competitive. Not sure how much you can read into that, but the SkyHawks seem to have the talent to overcome Norte Vista's physical attack.
Summit 21, Norte Vista 18

Rim of the World at Hesperia
The Fighting Scots have rolled their last two opponents after losing their opener to Serrano and just need to beat the Scorpions to clinch a playoff spot. Despite what has been a tough go of it to date, Hesperia is in control of its playoff destiny even with a loss today. That's good, because a loss is almost certainly going to happen.
Rim of the World 35, Hesperia 10

Twentynine Palms at Big Bear
These two East Valley powers seem to have found themselves after early struggles. The Wildcats have won five in a row since starting 0-4 and would love nothing more than to clinch a league title in Big Bear, which has won its last two and three of four. The Bears spoiled 29's bid for an undisputed league title last year but won't pull the trick twice.
Twentynine Palms 23, Big Bear 16

Other games of note:
Claremont 33, Alta Loma 7
Ontario Christian 28, Arrowhead Christian 17
Aquinas 45, Western Christian 13
Carter 34, Fontana 24
Redlands 38, Rialto 0
Yucaipa 48, Eisenhower 21
Barstow 20, Victor Valley 14
Apple Valley 42, Sultana 14
Chaffey 36, Garey 13
Montclair 38, Ontario 14
Arroyo Valley 45, San Bernardino 23
Cajon 51, Pacific 0
Kaiser 36, Bloomington 6
Glendora 40, Chino 7
Citrus Valley 24, Indio Shadow Hills 15
Oak Hills 48, Murrieta Mesa 6
Serrano 28, Ridgecrest Burroughs 13
Yucca Valley 30, Acton Vasquez 10

Week: 22-6
Overall: 201-55

Posted by TJ Berka at 5:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The 2009-2010 boys and girls playoff divisions were released Tuesday with a few notable changes. One of the most notable dealt with Hesperia, which dropped from Division I-AA to Division II-A in both genders. Redlands East Valley also dropped in both genders, moving down from I-AA to I-A.

Another notable team that moved up was the Colony girls basketball team. After winning the D3-A CIF title two years ago and the D1-A title last year, the Titans will have a chance to win a third title in a third different division, as they've moved up to D1-AA. Summit also made a leap up, moving from D2-A to D1-A.

Other notable girls teams to move up include Fontana (D1-A to D1-AA), Colton and Ontario (D2-AA to D1-A) and Alta Loma (D2-A to D2-AA). Boys teams to move up include Los Osos (D1-A to D1-AA), Colton and Ontario (D2-AA to D1-A), Yucaipa (D2-A to D1-A) and Summit (D2-A to D2-AA).

Of the new schools, Oak Hills was placed in D4-AA in both genders while Citrus Valley was put in D4-A.

Continue reading "Basketball playoff divisions released" »

Posted by TJ Berka at 6:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The fall national signing period is fast approaching, as it starts this upcoming Tuesday and runs through November 18. During this time, athletes will be signing letters of intent with four-year colleges to play basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, golf and women's water polo.

A few notables who will likely sign starting on Tuesday are Alta Loma boys basketball player J.J. O'Brien (Utah), Summit girls basketball player Maiya Michel (University of Denver) and Redlands East Valley volleyball player Johnna Fouch (San Diego State).

Know of players signing next week? Send me an e-mail at tj.berka@inlandnewspapers.com or message me on this blog.

Posted by TJ Berka at 6:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I didn't have much time after the Colton-Cajon game Thursday, but I did get a little tidbit about Colton defensive back Derrick Malone's recruitment from Yellowjackets coach Harold Strauss.

Malone, who was the star of Colton's 38-9 victory with 249 yards rushing and four touchdowns, including 80-yarders on Colton's first play of both halves, is heading to the University of Nebraska this weekend on an official visit with the Cornhuskers. It will be his first official visit and should be a good one, as Nebraska hosts rival Oklahoma.

As for his other visits, those are up in the air according to Strauss. A couple of teams high on Malone's list - UCLA and Oregon - have picked up contact and are on the verge of offering in Strauss' opinion. Another Pac-10 team, Arizona, has also been talking with Malone a lot lately and could offer.

"He's going to wait to see if some of these other schools offer and go from there," Strauss said. "I know he's been wanting to hear from some more Pac-10 schools so he'll wait to see what they do and go from there."

Posted by TJ Berka at 12:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Another week, another new No. 1 in the Central Division. It's Colton's turn now.

CENTRAL DIVISION

1. Colton
2. Rancho Cucamonga
3. Colony
4. Etiwanda
5. Upland
6. Elsinore
7. Chino Hills
8. Arroyo Valley
9. Glendora
10. Ayala
Also receiving votes: Don Lugo, Cajon, Los Osos

EASTERN DIVISION

1. Citrus Hill
2. Serrano
3. Palm Desert
4. Silverado
5. Rim of the World
6. Kaiser
7. Barstow
8. Norte Vista
9. La Quinta
10. Granite Hills
Also receiving votes: Notre Dame, San Jacinto, Victor Valley, Palm Springs

EAST VALLEY DIVISION

1. St. Margaret's
2. Campbell Hall
3. Maranatha
4. Kern Valley
5. Sage Hill
6. Fillmore
7. Santa Paula
8. Sierra Canyon
9. Frazier Mountain
10. Twentynine Palms
Also receiving votes: Arrowhead Christian, Aquinas

INLAND DIVISION

1. Redlands East Valley
2. Corona Centennial
3. Vista Murrieta
4. Norco
5. Rancho Verde
6. Redlands
7. Chaparral
8. Arlington
9. Roosevelt
10. Murrieta Valley
Also receiving votes: Great Oak

Posted by TJ Berka at 12:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Oregon makes a huge jump after destroying USC in one of the more impressive performances I've seen in a while.

1. Florida (1) - Finally looked like the dominating Gator team from last year.
2. Alabama (2) - Very tempted to put Texas here, but I'll give Alabama a chance to redeem its spot against LSU this week.
3. Texas (3) - Has looked very good the last two weeks since beating Oklahoma.
4. Boise State (6) - Get a bump up thanks to Oregon's performance. That September win looks bigger by the day.
5. Oregon (13) - Any time you beat USC by 27, you are going to shoot up the rankings.
6. TCU (5) - Loses a spot, but due more to what others did well.
7. Cincinnati (7) - Bearcats cruising along in the Big East.
8. Iowa (8) - Hawkeyes looked awful for 3 quarters against Indiana, then won by 18. Weird.
9. LSU (9) - Big showdown with Alabama looms.
10. Georgia Tech (10) - Put up 56 points on Vandy.
11. Penn State (12) - Put away Northwestern late.
12. USC (4) - The Trojans have to hate the Pacific Northwest right now.
13. Pittsburgh (15) - Panthers are quietly surging up the polls.
14. Houston (16) - Cougars gain 750 yards of offense to win 50-43 shootout over Southern Miss.
15. Miami (Fla) (17) - Escaped Wake Forest by the hair of their chinny-chin-chin.
16. Ohio State (19) - Buckeyes win laugher over New Mexico State.
17. Utah (20) - Utes scrape one out against Wyoming.
18. Oklahoma State (11) - Cowboys got blasted by Texas and quite frankly, I may have them too high.
19. BYU (22) - Moved up 3 spots in a bye week. Must be nice.
20. Oklahoma (23) - Sooners complete sweep of Kansas schools.
21. Arizona (25) - Wildcats could be a sleeper in the Pac-10.
22. Notre Dame (NR) - Irish keep winning and finally get back in the top 25.
23. California (NR) - Last-second FG gets Cal win at Arizona State.
24. Virginia Tech (14) - Two straight losses has Va. Tech holding on for dear life.
25. Wisconsin (NR) - 37-0 thrashing of Purdue gives Badgers spot.

Receiving consideration: Mississippi, Texas Tech, West Virginia
Dropped out: No. 18 Mississippi, No. 21 South Carolina, No. 24 West Virginia

Posted by TJ Berka at 1:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Not a great week last week. Apparently picking from a hotel room in Tucson doesn't suit me too well.

Denver (+3.5) over BALTIMORE
Cleveland (+13.5) over CHICAGO
Houston (-3) over BUFFALO
GREEN BAY (-3) over Minnesota
San Francisco (+13) over INDIANAPOLIS
N.Y. JETS (-3.5) over Miami
DETROIT (off) over St. Louis
Seattle (+10) over DALLAS
SAN DIEGO (-17) over Oakland
Jacksonville (+3) over TENNESSEE
Carolina (+10) over ARIZONA
PHILADELPHIA (+2) over N.Y. Giants
Atlanta (+10.5) over NEW ORLEANS

Week: 5-7-1
Overall: 54-47-1

Posted by TJ Berka at 3:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Probably the toughest set of rankings to come up with yet. Positions 3-7 are basically interchangeable at this point.

1. Redlands East Valley (8-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. Carter, 41-14. Up next: Friday vs. Miller (4-4)

2. Colton (7-1)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: def. Cajon, 38-9. Up next: Friday at San Gorgonio (2-6).

3. Rancho Cucamonga (7-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. Alta Loma, 34-14. Up next: Friday at No. 7 Upland (7-1)

4. Colony (7-1)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: def. Chaffey, 35-13. Up next: Friday vs. Don Lugo (5-3).

5. Redlands (7-1)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: def. Miller, 28-27. Up next: Friday at Rialto (0-8).

6. Etiwanda (6-2)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. No. 7 Upland, 18-16. Up next: Friday at Los Osos (4-4).

7. Upland (7-1)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: lost to No. 6 Etiwanda, 18-16. Up next: Friday vs. No. 3 Rancho Cucamonga (7-1).

8. Serrano (6-2)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Hesperia, 42-6. Up next: Friday at Ridgecrest Burroughs (4-4).

9. Silverado (7-2)
Previous ranking: 10. Last week: def. Ridgecrest Burroughs, 35-21. Up next: Friday at Granite Hills (6-2).

10. Kaiser (5-3)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Summit, 13-7. Up next: Friday vs. Bloomington (3-5).

Just missed the cut: Rim of the World (8-1), Chino Hills (6-2), Los Osos (4-4), Barstow (6-2).

Dropped out: No. 6 Chino Hills (6-2).

Posted by TJ Berka at 6:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Saw Redlands win a classic over Miller. Great game.

Aquinas 63, Arrowhead Christian 3
Arroyo Valley 27, San Gorgonio 21
Barstow 36, Sultana 3
Big Bear 32, Desert Mirage 0
Bloomington 28, Jurupa Valley 7
Colony 35, Chaffey 13
Colton 38, Cajon 9
Damien 17, Ayala 7
Diamond Bar 34, Chino 17
Eisenhower 32, Rialto 20
Etiwanda 18, Upland 16
Glendora 24, Chino Hills 23
Granite Hills 21, Victor Valley 14
Kaiser 13, Summit 7
Los Osos 54, Claremont 21
Oak Hills 43, Laguna Beach 29
Ontario Christian 55, California Military Institute 0
Rancho Cucamonga 34, Alta Loma 14
Redlands 28, Miller 27
Redlands East Valley 41, Carter 14
Rim of the World 31, Apple Valley 0
San Bernardino 44, Pacific 14
Serrano 42, Hesperia 6
Silverado 35, Ridgecrest Burroughs 21
Twentynine Palms 37, Yucca Valley 20
Yucaipa 27, Fontana 6

Posted by TJ Berka at 10:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

I'm nothing if not average as far as college football is concerned. If only I knew which five I'd get every week - I could be rich. But alas, I'm not.

USC (-3) at Oregon
The game of the Pac-10 season by far, as the Ducks have destroyed everything in their path lately while the Trojans have kept winning, albeit in heart-stopping fashion at times. The Trojans have already won in Columbus, Berkeley and South Bend, so there will be no intimidation here. This is a type of game that the Trojans just don't lose, and that's what I'm going with.
Pick: USC

UCLA (+9.5) at Oregon State
Having a chance to watch the Bruins live in Tucson last week was eye-opening. UCLA is really not good, as they couldn't cover despite Arizona giving them five turnovers. The Bruins' best hope is an Oregon State letdown after its close loss to USC, but I don't see it. Easy money for the Beavers here.
Pick: Oregon State

California (-6.5) at Arizona State
The Bears seem to have recovered from whatever swine-flu like disorder plagued it during the Oregon and USC games. But Cal does not do well on the road and while Arizona State is hardly a power this year, they have played pretty well at Sun Devil Stadium. I have a feeling ASU keeps it close.
Pick: Arizona State

Washington State (+28) vs. Notre Dame
This game is being played in San Antonio for some reason, with the Cougars expected to play the role of the sacrifical lamb to Notre Dame. However, Wazzu has been very good at covering obscene spreads. It still gets killed, but killed by less than the spread. Considering that ND revels in closer games, I expect the Cougars to stay within four touchdowns, if just barely.
Pick: Washington State

Texas (-9.5) at Oklahoma State
Good news, bad news scenario for the Cowboys. The good news is that star RB Kendall Hunter will be back from injury but WR Desmond Bryant has been ruled ineligble, which, obviously, is the bad news. Okie State finds creative ways to lose to Texas and likely will again, but they always seem to be heartbreaks. Translation: Take the points.
Pick: Oklahoma State

Georgia (+15) vs. Florida
The "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" is going a bit under the radar this year, with the Bulldogs meandering around .500 and the Gators somewhat struggling despite being No. 1. Florida has owned this series of late, but these Gators seem more like the 2006 champions than the 2008 ones, meaning take the points and watch Florida ugly out another win.
Pick: Georgia

Central Michigan (+5.5) at Boston College
Why am I picking this game? A couple reasons. The first is that its not a very good week for college football in the ACC or Big East. The second is that this is a sneaky-good matchup, as the Chippewas have won seven in a row while BC has been as pesky as it normally is. Central has won at Michigan State and I think they'll win in the Northeast.
Pick: Central Michigan

Penn State (-17.5) at Northwestern
Yeah, its a crappy week in the Big Ten too, with Iowa playing Indiana and Ohio State playing New Mexico State randomly. So I guess this game gets my pick. Penn State impressed by destroying Michigan and could be ripe for a letdown, but Northwestern, although 5-3, just isn't that good. I'll take Penn State to cover and continue its surge.
Pick: Penn State

South Carolina (+6) at Tennessee
The Volunteers lead the nation in moral victories, as the Vols have given Florida and Alabama tough tussles on the road, coming within a blocked field goal of shocking the Crimson Tide. But they are still 3-4 and South Carolina is a pretty darn good team. I think you have to take the points, especially with Tennessee on letdown alert.
Pick: South Carolina

Kansas (+6.5) at Texas Tech
Reason this game is included is because of this awesome press conference rant by Texas Tech coach Mike Leach, which I've added below.

That being said, I expect Texas Tech to be a little more focused this week, which is bad news for Kansas.
Pick: Texas Tech

Last week: 5-5
Overall: 39-39-2

Posted by TJ Berka at 5:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Heading out to Colton in a bit for a rare Thursday night showdown. Missed Barstow-Silverado, the Los Osos upset of Rancho Cucamonga and Arrowhead Christian last week.

Cajon at Colton
This was the game last year where Cajon overpowered Colton in the second half to grab a blowout victory and wrest the San Andreas League title from the Yellowjackets' grasp. Well, it looks like its time for Colton to do the wresting. Cajon has not been very effective against quality competition and Colton is the best team its faced to date. Like the Yellowjackets to roll right now.
Colton 28, Cajon 6

Kaiser at Summit
Another great Thursday night bash, as SoFo goes to NoFo for a matchup that should be dope, yo. Anthony Brown has been running around crazy for the Cats in recent weeks, scoring eight touchdowns in two Sunkist League games. If he can continue that clip of production against a Summit defense that's pitched consecutive shutouts, Kaiser will roll. He likely won't, but I'll pick Kaiser anyway.
Kaiser 24, Summit 16

Redlands at Miller
The first of three titanic Citrus Belt League showdowns from now until the end of the season, as Redlands has won six in a row and Miller has won four in a row. It will be interesting to see how well the resurgent Miller offense does against the stingy Terrier defense. I personally think that Redlands comes in to Miller and pulls one out.
Redlands 20, Miller 14

Upland at Etiwanda
The classic battle between the explosive offense (Etiwanda) and the suffocating defense (Upland). With Rancho inexplicably slipping up to Los Osos, this game all of a sudden is a battle for first place. While Angel Santiago and company are enjoyable to watch, in a battle like this, I almost always go with defense. Upland will choke 'em out.
Upland 21, Etiwanda 10

Colony at Chaffey
The Tigers took it to Colony last year, going to the southside and defeating the Titans to grab the Mt. Baldy League title. You know that the Titans, who have won six in a row, are looking to settle the score and get this rivalry back in their favor. Chaffey will have some success, but this might be the best Colony team that Anthony Rice has had, which says a lot.
Colony 27, Chaffey 14

Ridgecrest Burroughs at Silverado
Having gone up the 15 and blasted Barstow, Silverado - winners of six straight games - can put a hammerlock on the Desert Sky League with a victory against a Burroughs team that has split heart-wrenching games to Barstow and Granite Hills. The Hawks have some pretty solid pelts and are on a huge roll, a roll I don't expect the Burros to stop.
Silverado 30, Burroughs 20

Glendora at Chino Hills
Finally, the cream of the Sierra League crop is actually going to play each other. After two weeks of pretty bad games, this one should be OK. I'm only going with OK because Glendora isn't quite what it's been the last two years. Chino Hills, on the other hand, is looking pretty strong and should have its way here.
Chino Hills 28, Glendora 16

Apple Valley at Rim of the World
It's been a tough two weeks for the Sun Devils, who have lost close games to Granite Hills and Serrano that very easily could be wins. It doesn't get much easier for Apple Valley, as they head up the hill to face a Rim team that traditionally gives it fits. The Sun Devils don't need to win this to make the playoffs, which is good for them, because I see the Fighting Scots fighting on.
Rim of the World 20, Apple Valley 17

Aquinas at Arrowhead Christian
Sort of a weird vibe coming into this game, as ACA is the team that comes in with a CIF ranking while Aquinas hasn't won on the field since Oct. 2. The Falcons aren't winless during that time, as the two-time defending Christian League champions got a forfeit win over La Verne Lutheran, but they want to show ACA that the road to the Christian title goes through them still. They will.
Aquinas 24, Arrowhead Christian 9

Yucca Valley at Twentynine Palms
The De Anza co-champs have been resurgent of late, as Twentynine Palms has won four straight after starting 0-4 while Yucca Valley has won back-to-back games after an 0-5 start. The winner of The Victory Bell takes control of the league championship race and while I like what Yucca has done, the Wildcats take this at home.
Twentynine Palms 28, Yucca Valley 13

Other games of interest:

Chino 48, Diamond Bar 40
Garey 30, Ontario 10
Los Osos 23, Claremont 20
Rancho Cucamonga 45, Alta Loma 0
Redlands East Valley 48, Carter 14
Yucaipa 35, Fontana 20
Rialto 42, Eisenhower 36
Big Bear 21, Desert Mirage 16
Granite Hills 23, Victor Valley 21
Serrano 27, Hesperia 6
Don Lugo 31, Montclair 10
Arroyo Valley 34, San Gorgonio 27
San Bernardino 38, Pacific 20
Ayala 28, Damien 17
Bloomington 35, Jurupa Valley 7
Barstow 28, Sultana 12
Murrieta Mesa 24, Citrus Valley 18
Laguna Beach 30, Oak Hills 24

Week: 26-3
Overall: 179-49

Posted by TJ Berka at 4:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

The Cajon-Colton bash, which will likely determine the San Andreas League champion, will be played on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Colton High School instead of Friday as was originally scheduled during the summer.

Makes for a great Thursday of football, as Kaiser and Summit will also butt heads at 7 p.m. at Miller High School.

Posted by TJ Berka at 2:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Upland makes the leap to No. 1 with Rancho's loss, with Colton right behind them. Serrano and Silverado were the big winners in the Eastern Division, and deservedly so. Don't get why Palm Desert is No. 2 and Silverado, which whipped them a few weeks back, is No. 4 though.

CENTRAL DIVISION

1. Upland
2. Colton
3. Rancho Cucamonga
4. Colony
5. Chino Hills
6. Ayala
7. Etiwanda
8. Elsinore
9. Cajon
10. Arroyo Valley
Others receiving consideration: West Valley, Chaffey, Los Osos

EASTERN DIVISION

1. Citrus Hill
2. Palm Desert
3. Serrano
4. Silverado
5. San Jacinto
6. Rim of the World
7. Barstow
8. Kaiser
9. Norte Vista
10. Victor Valley
Others receiving votes: Riverside Notre Dame, Coachella Valley, Granite Hills, Palm Springs, La Quinta, Summit

EAST VALLEY DIVISION

1. St. Margaret's
2. Campbell Hall
3. Maranatha
4. Santa Paula
5. Kern Valley
6. Sage Hill
7. Sierra Canyon
8. Arrowhead Christian
9. Fillmore
10. Frazier Mountain
Others receiving votes: Brethren Christian, Twentynine Palms, Brentwood

INLAND DIVISION

1. Redlands East Valley
2. Corona Centennial
3. Vista Murrieta
4. Norco
5. Rancho Verde
6. Redlands
7. Great Oak
8. Chaparral
9. Arlington
10. Roosevelt
Others receiving votes: La Sierra, Miller

Posted by TJ Berka at 4:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A little late on this after getting back from Arizona. Nothing too crazy this week.

1) Florida (1) - Not pretty, but still undefeated. And the Gators were prettier than No. 2.
2) Alabama (2) - Huge sigh of relief from the Tide after ekeing one out over Tennessee.
3) Texas (3) - Looked as good as they have all season in rolling Missouri 41-7.
4) USC (4) - Passed part one of the Oregon double-dip this week. Part two should be tougher.
5) TCU (6) - Their destruction of BYU moves them into the top 5. Previous victim Clemson's win over Miami helps too.
6) Boise State (5) - Sucks to win 54-9 and still move down. Such is life in the WAC.
7) Cincinnati (7) - Just imagine if Boise hadn't won by 45. Cincy would definitely be in their spot.
8) Iowa (8) - Hawkeyes pull off last-second win at Michigan State to remain undefeated.
9) LSU (10) - Looked good against a fading Auburn team. Kind of quietly lurking in the shadows.
10) Georgia Tech (12) - Yellowjackets roll on to a spot in the top 10. Watching them run the triple-option is a thing of beauty.
11) Oklahoma State (11) - Big test comes this week with Texas rolling into town.
12) Penn State (13) - Made surprisingly easy work of Michigan for first win in Ann Arbor in 13 years.
13) Oregon (16) - Still probably have the Ducks rated too low, but a win over USC will definitely fix that. I promise.
14) Virginia Tech (14) - Had a bye. Not much else to say here really.
15) Pittsburgh (17) - Panthers continue to surge, though their schedule will get tougher in the last month of the season.
16) Houston (18) - Kept winning, which is all you can really do when you are a Conference USA team.
17) Miami (Fla) (9) - Overtime loss to Clemson sends Hurricanes downward.
18) Mississippi (20) - Best output of season thus far in win over Arkansas.
19) Ohio State (21) - Whipped Minnesota in nice bounce-back from upset loss to Purdue.
20) Utah (22) - Had to go overtime to topple Air Force.
21) South Carolina (23) - Ugly win over Vanderbilt, but a win is a win as they say.
22) BYU (15) - I didn't drop them farther because I think TCU is legit.
23) Oklahoma (NR) - Nice impressive win at Kansas gets the Sooners back in the poll after a brief hiatus.
24) West Virginia (NR) - No real signature win, but having six of them gets WVU a spot.
25) Arizona (NR) - Almost put Central Michigan here, but the Wildcats beat Central in the season opener. Hence Zona making the cut.

Receiving consideration: Central Michigan, Notre Dame, California
Dropped out: No. 19 Texas Tech, No. 24 Nebraska, No. 25 South Florida

Posted by TJ Berka at 12:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Redlands East Valley junior wrestler Chris Mecate won first place in the 119-pound class at the Super 32 high school wrestling tournament in Greensboro, N.C. Saturday. Mecate was the best of a field of 145 wrestlers in the 119-pound class from all over the country. According to Mecate's father Perry, Chris defeated two All-Americans, two state champions and three other state placers en route to the title. The 119-pound class included eight All-Americans, 23 state champions, 57 state placers and 68 regional placers, respectively.

Posted by TJ Berka at 11:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Back above .500 last week. Don't know why it happened, but I'm happy it did.

San Diego (-5.5) over KANSAS CITY
Indianapolis (-14.5) over ST. LOUIS
Chicago (even) over CINCINNATI
CLEVELAND (+9) over Green Bay
Minnesota (+6) over PITTSBURGH
TAMPA BAY (+15.5) over New England
HOUSTON (-3) over San Francisco
N.Y. Jets (-6) over OAKLAND
Buffalo (+7) over CAROLINA
MIAMI (+6.5) over New Orleans
Atlanta (+4) over DALLAS
N.Y. GIANTS (-7) over Arizona
Philadelphia (-7) over WASHINGTON

Last week: 8-6
Overall: 49-40

Posted by TJ Berka at 2:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A little late, but this is it. REV is No. 1 now.

Sun Top 10

1. Redlands East Valley (7-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. Rialto, 49-6. Up next: Friday vs. Carter (3-4)

2. Upland (7-0)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: def. Alta Loma, 42-7. Up next: Friday at No. 8 Etiwanda (5-2).

3. Colton (6-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. San Bernardino, 41-7. Up next: Friday vs. Cajon (5-2).

4. Rancho Cucamonga (6-1)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: lost to Los Osos, 31-28. Up next: Friday at Alta Loma (0-7)

5. Colony (6-1)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: def. Garey, 55-7. Up next: Friday at Chaffey (4-3).

6. Chino Hills (6-1)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: def. Chino, 49-7. Up next: Friday vs. Glendora (4-3).

7. Redlands (6-1)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. Yucaipa, 35-13. Up next: Friday at Miller (4-3).

8. Etiwanda (5-2)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Claremont, 24-21. Up next: Friday vs. No. 2 Upland (7-0).

9. Serrano (5-2)
Previous ranking: 10. Last week: def. Apple Valley 13-7. Up next: Friday vs. Hesperia (3-4).

10. Silverado (6-2)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Barstow, 40-12. Up next: Friday vs. Ridgecrest Burroughs (4-3).

Just missed the cut: Ayala (6-1), Kaiser (4-3), Rim of the World (7-1), Miller (4-3)

Dropped out: No. 7. Barstow (5-2).

Posted by TJ Berka at 2:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)