Recently in Ayala High School Category

Only two county teams, the Ayala girls and Oak Hills boys, advance on to the regional tournament, which starts Tuesday and will end Saturday at Downey Warren High School. The pair of Bulldogs are looking to avenge CIF-SS championship losses, with Ayala falling to Bishop Amat in the Division 2 finals Friday and Oak Hills losing to Pico Rivera in the D4 championship Saturday. First-round games are Tuesday at 4 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Division 1 Girls
Westview at No. 1 San Clemente
Buena at No. 4 Bullard
Wilson at No. 3 El Camino Real
Ayala at No. 2 Torrey Pines

Division 2 Boys
Coronado at No. 1 Claremont
Oak Hills at No. 4 Reedley
Canoga Park at No. 3 Santa Barbara
Citrus Hill at No. 2 University City

The times and sites for this weekend's CIF-SS soccer championships were finalized Wednesday, with three county teams set to battle for titles in their respective divisions. Both county boys soccer teams that are still alive, Fontana in Division 3 and Oak Hills in Division 4, will play Saturday. The Mojave River League champion Bulldogs, making their second consecutive CIF championship appearance, will play No. 2-seeded Pico Rivera El Rancho in the D4 title game at 9:30 a.m. at Downey Warren High School while the Citrus Belt League champion Steelers will face off against No. 4-seeded Paramount in the D3 title game at 5 p.m. at Mission Viejo High School.

The top-seeded team in Division 3 girls, Ayala, will play its championship game on Friday, as the Bulldogs will take on No. 2-seeded La Puente Bishop Amat at 7:30 p.m. at Warren High School. Bishop Amat defeated No. 3 Granite Hills in the semifinals Tuesday.

For those who wonder if they run cross country in the rain, the answer is definitely yes.
The CIF-SS Finals were held as scheduled, but on the rain course at Mt. San Antonio College on Saturday.

Five San Bernardino County teams qualified for state by finishing in the top seven in their race: Rancho Cucamonga boys in Division 1, Ayala and Serrano girls in Division 2, and Granite Hills boys and girls in Division 3.
In addition, Colony's Xochitl Navarrete (girls Division 2) and Nick Valenzuela (boys Division 2), Apple Valley's Hannah Valenzuela (giris Division 3), and Aquinas' Alyssa Windle (girls Division 5) all qualified for the state meet as individuals, which is next Saturday at Woodward Park in Fresno.

Doing this a day earlier than normal, as several county teams are pulling a Conference USA and playing on a Wednesday. Only dropped five games last week, which is tied with my high performance of the season to date. We'll see if I get any smarter this week.

Redlands East Valley at Miller
With Miller's upset at Redlands last week, this game is now for the Citrus Belt League title. These teams have played classics the last three years, with each game going down to the final minute. If the good Miller shows up and stays for a while, this game could very well be the same. I'll be out to see this game Thursday and I expect a close game that goes to be more even-tempered team - which is REV.
Redlands East Valley 21, Miller 14

Upland at Los Osos
The tide in this series turned in 2008, when Upland smacked down the Grizzlies in the CIF semifinals to end a sizable losing streak to Los Osos. The Highlanders have added two more wins since, including a CIF championship win last December. A Los Osos win would put the Baseline on tilt, as Upland, Los Osos and Etiwanda would have to flip for two spots behind Rancho Cucamonga. An Upland win would make things nice and easy. We like nice and easy.
Upland 28, Los Osos 24

Ridgecrest Burroughs at Victor Valley
It very well could be feast or famine for the Jackrabbits. If they defeat Burroughs at home, Victor Valley will be the Desert Sky League champions and the No. 1 seed out of the league going into the playoffs. A loss could send them into a three-way tie for second with Silverado and Granite Hills and a resulting coin flip. While Victor Valley is in good shape for the at-large, it wouldn't mind not going down that road. But it might have to, as I see Burroughs winning.
Burroughs 30, Victor Valley 17

Carter at Arroyo Valley
The SAL is nice and simple, as the top three playoff spots are set with seeding locked in and this game settling the No. 4 spot. Carter is extremely close to being undefeated, losing to Cajon and San G by one score and Colton in overtime. Arroyo Valley, meanwhile, wasn't really close in any of its games against the Big 3. While the transitive property is dangerous to use to predict games, I feel as if Carter is a bit more equipped for this game.
Carter 21, Arroyo Valley 13

Summit at Norte Vista
The SkyHawks gave Kaiser all it could handle last week, actually having the top-ranked Cats behind in the fourth quarter before relenting and losing 19-7. Now can Summit shake off a possible letdown and get its first second-place finish in league? Norte Vista is physical and will try to pound the Cats. A first-round home playoff game is at stake, which should be enough for Summit to overcome any thoughts of regret from last week.
Summit 28, Norte Vista 22

Apple Valley at Oak Hills
Another game between teams jostling for seeding happens in the Mojave River League, as Oak Hills wants to cement its first season in league with a solid second-place finish. Apple Valley has been erratic at times, struggling to put away Sultana last week to clinch the playoff spot. The Bulldogs piledrove Hesperia last week and should take care of the Sun Devils this week.
Oak Hills 27, Apple Valley 14

Big Bear at Twentynine Palms
This is another league-title showdown, as the Wildcats will try to capture their fourth straight De Anza title by beating the Bears on their home turf. I expect this game to be a dandy, as the Bears' option attack is being executed in tip-top form with junior quarterback Zakk Planz while the Wildcats have profited from the bruising running of fullback Chris Fuifui. However, I like the Bears here in a mild upset.
Big Bear 24, Twentynine Palms 22

Ontario at Colony
I could write a dissertation on the Mt. Baldy League playoff situation and still not explain it correctly. However, I'm going to defer to my colleague Clay Fowler on this, as I would probably turn myself crosseyed trying to explain how a five-way tie at 2-4 for two playoff spots (which is mathematically possible) could work. This game could contribute to that chaos, as Ontario is one of four teams at 2-3 playing a Colony team that has its spot already set. Colony could be nice, let the Jaguars win and save us all from grief, but it won't.
Colony 34, Ontario 14

Ayala at Chino Hills
This battle of Chino Hills typically has huge implications riding on it but really doesn't this year, at least for Ayala, as the Bulldogs are long since eliminated from the playoffs. Chino Hills could still sneak out with a Sierra League title, as South Hills' upset of Claremont last week opened up that door just a tad. The Huskies still need Claremont to lose to Damien for a league title to happen, but they'll do their part tonight.
Chino Hills 38, Ayala 6

Ontario Christian at Arrowhead Christian
With only two teams automatically making the playoffs out of the Ambassador League, Ontario Christian is in a precarious spot. Aquinas and Linfield Christian have the two spots locked up, which leaves the 3-6 Knights, who made the East Valley finals a year ago, scrambling for an at-large. How does this game with ACA factor in? Well, a few style points wouldn't hurt, so I expect Ontario Christian to put a hurting on the Eagles and hope for the best on Sunday.
Ontario Christian 44, ACA 10

Other games of note
Aquinas 48, Western Christian 14
Rancho Cucamonga 38, Glendora 13
Etiwanda 65, Alta Loma 7
Redlands 49, Fontana 6
Yucaipa 38, Eisenhower 10
Yucca Valley 45, Shadow Hills 0
Silverado 28, Barstow 6
Serrano 42, Hesperia 0
Chino 49, Don Lugo 20
Montclair 26, Chaffey 22
Rim of the World 56, Jurupa Hills 12
Riverside Notre Dame 45, Citrus Valley 9
Colton 28, Rialto 7
San Gorgonio 62, Pacific 14
Cajon 55, San Bernardino 12
Kaiser 43, Bloomington 6
Granite Hills 16, Sultana 6

Last week: 26-5
Overall: 226-78-3

If you love cross country -- and I'm sure there are many of you who do - Mt. San Antonio College is the place to be the next two Saturdays, Nov. 13 and 20.
The CIF-SS released the heat sheets for the CIF Prelims Nov. 13. In all, there will be 33 races, beginning at 7:45 a.m. and the last one beginning at 4:05 p.m. There will be a county team or individual competing in 31 of 33 races. It was also announced on Saturday that the Aquinas and Western Christian boys teams were selected as at-large teams in Division 5 based on their rankings.

Here are some races to keep an eye on:
Race 5, Boys Division 2, 8:43 a.m.
Ayala and Sultana, two schools better known for their girls teams, also have solid boys teams in search of the CIF Finals.
Race 24, Boys Division 1, 2:06 p.m.
Former Citrus Belt League rivals Rialto and Redlands East Valley will battle. Rialto won the San Andreas League this year, while REV was a close second to Yucaipa in the CBL.
Race 26, Boys Division 1, 2:33 p.m.
This one has five county teams in it. State ranked Rancho Cucamonga is there, as is CBL champion and defending state qualifier Yucaipa. Redlands, third in the CBL is there as is Chaffey, Upland and Christian Navarro of Los Osos.
Race 31, Girls Division 1, 3:38 p.m.
Two of the top teams in the county, Rancho Cucamonga and Redlands will be represented as will Los Osos and Rialto.

Week 0 went tragically for me, as I barely won more games than I lost. Time for redemption.

Redlands at Summit
Should be a heck of a game, as an explosive Summit offense that went off for 42 points last week goes against a Redlands defense that forced eight turnovers in its opener. Devon Blackmon (who donned a UCLA cap after last week's game for you recruitniks) rolled his ankle and may be slowed a bit in this one. I think you'll see Redlands' offense catch up to its defense and pull this out.
Redlands 27, Summit 23

Colton at Chaffey
If you like hard-nosed, smash-mouth football where the forward pass is dismissed as the work of nancy boys, then you'll love this game. Both of these teams are devastatingly effective in the double-wing offense and if you see more than 10 passes combined in this game, it'll be a shock. This marks the debut of new Colton coach Rick Bray and even though Chaffey has a game in hand, Colton will emerge.
Colton 28, Chaffey 16

Palm Springs at Arroyo Valley
The season opener for the Hawks will be a doozy, as Palm Springs is the defending CIF-SS Eastern Division champions and is the No. 1 ranked team in the Central Division. Michael Yearwood will make some plays for Arroyo Valley, but Palm Springs will likely be too much.
Palm Springs 30, Arroyo Valley 17

Silverado at Serrano
The Hawks are traditionally slow-starting, so last week's 42-7 loss to Rancho Cucamonga isn't necessarily a harbinger of doom for the season. But Silverado isn't going to get much in the way of relief against Serrano, the No. 1 team in the Eastern Division. I expect this rivalry game to go to the Diamondbacks for the fourth straight year.
Serrano 31, Silverado 12

Colony at Ayala
This was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the Bulldogs, but after a 35-13 victory over Don Lugo, maybe expectations need to be recalibrated for Ayala. Colony suffered a tough loss to Los Osos last week, but expectations are still high for the Titans. I'll take Colony to win tonight's matchup.
Colony 24, Ayala 20

Miller at Carson
Another Thursday game and a game I'll be heading off to pretty soon. The Rebels equipped themselves nicely against Upland, having the defending Central champion Highlanders in a 9-9 fourth-quarter deadlock before Upland pulled away with 12 quick points. Going to Carson and playing the Colts, who defeated Mater Dei last week, is too tough a task though.
Carson 38, Miller 13

Twentynine Palms at Aquinas
Aquinas has several scores to settle against Twentynine Palms, which has defeated the Falcons three times in the last two years, including a rout in the 2008 East Valley playoffs. I really don't see it changing this year. The Falcons will be fine in the Ambassador League, but they'll still feel the growing pains of a freshman QB in this one.
Twentynine Palms 26, Aquinas 17

Redlands East Valley at Clovis East
The Wildcats start off 2010 going through the scenic Central Valley to play a traditionally tough Clovis East squad. Typically you would pick against the team having to take the 4-plus-hour bus ride, but REV seems to excel in tough road situations such as this. I'm taking REV.
Redlands East Valley 21, Clovis East 17

Barstow at Kaiser
This should be another game where the forward pass will be used rarely, as both of these teams trend toward the smashmouth persona. The Aztecs got smashed at home last week against Apple Valley and I think they are a little too young and inexperienced to really test Kaiser right now.
Kaiser 30, Barstow 10

Tustin at Upland
The Highlanders struggled a bit with Miller last week, as their new-look defense gave up some serious passing yards to Rebel quarterback Eric Shufford. Tustin is typically a pretty tough team from Orange County and will give Upland a tussle, but I'm still going with the champs.
Upland 24, Tustin 20

Other games of note:
Don Lugo 26, Ontario Christian 21
Arrowhead Christian 12, Webb 6
Carter 28, Alta Loma 17
Rancho Cucamonga 28, Temecula Great Oak 13
Los Osos 27, Riverside North 20
Vista Murrieta 35, Etiwanda 14
Cajon 45, Eisenhower 20
Fontana 20, Littlerock 14
Yucaipa 21, Canyon Springs 16
Arcadia Rio Hondo Prep 20, Big Bear 17
Coachella Valley 30, Yucca Valley 14
Granite Hills 24, Hesperia 14
Rim of the World 33, Victor Valley 13
Oak Hills 28, Desert Hot Springs 15
Palm Desert 34, Apple Valley 19
San Bernardino 25, Sultana 23
Pomona 35, Montclair 12
Whittier 21, Chino 14
Rubidoux 30, Ontario 20
Bloomington 24, Banning 17
Citrus Valley 28, Burbank Bell-Jeff 20
Jurupa Hills 9, Calabasas Viewpoint 6
Pacific 19, Jurupa Valley 12
Rancho Verde 38, San Gorgonio 16
Chino Hills 31, Corona Santiago 20

Last week: 12-9-1
Overall: 12-9-1

Still got a couple more teams to get to in previews, but luckily they don't play this week. There are several teams that do play, however, and several intriguing games, including a doozy tonight.

Etiwanda at Summit
This is where I'll be in T minus-3 hours, as the Baseline co-champion Eagles play a Summit team that might have more explosion than any team in the area. I'm interested in two things a) how creative Summit is in using Devon Blackmon and b) how the Etiwanda offense will look after losing Angel Santiago and Bobby Ratliff, among others. I think Summit will have a bit too much firepower.
Summit 27, Etiwanda 17

Rancho Cucamonga at Silverado
I was originally slated to be at this game tomorrow, but changes out of my control prevent that. And that's really too bad, because I was looking forward to seeing the Cougars in the High Desert. Silverado doesn't dodge anyone in the nonleague schedule, but injury issues to its offensive line will make it tough for its skill players to dodge the Rancho defenders.
Rancho Cucamonga 31, Silverado 16

Upland at Miller
The Baseline League is all over Week 0 apparently. This game was highly anticipated when it was played at Upland last year and turned out to be prophetic, as a CIF-champion Highlander team choked out a highly-touted Miller team that eventually ended up underachieving. The Rebels will want to turn the tables, but I don't think they'll be able to.
Upland 24, Miller 10

Cajon at Claremont
Another intriguing Sun/Bulletin crossover game, as both teams feel they are ready for a considerable leap. For Cajon, the feeling is that the Cowboys will have a team comparable to its 2008 SAL champion and Central semifinalist. For the Wolfpack, the change to the Sierra League and a new opportunity is something they are stoked about. I'll go with the team that's more used to success in this one.
Cajon 26, Claremont 20

Temecula Greak Oak at Redlands
This is where I was switched to tomorrow and, despite my regret about not seeing Rancho-Silverado, I'm not going to complain. Great Oak handled the Terriers 24-7 in the season opener last year, something that I'll bet Redlands coach Jim Walker is reminding his team about. I think the Terriers will come out hungry and push Great Oak around a bit.
Redlands 19, Great Oak 13

Los Osos at Colony
The Bechtel Bowl should be a fun one, as former Los Osos offensive coordinator Matt Bechtel will be making his debut as the Colony coach against his old team. It will be interesting to see how the Titans handle Bechtel's system in game one and how much the Grizzlies can reload from last year. Los Osos has never lost a season opener and I'm not betting against that streak.
Los Osos 28, Colony 21

Apple Valley at Barstow
Both of these teams aren't really sure what kind of hand they have, as graduation losses have ravaged them. The Sun Devils won their first playoff game in over two decades last season, giving them some momentum, while Barstow is always a tough out, especially at home. In a game filled with uncertainty, I will go with the safe pick and take the home team.
Barstow 17, Apple Valley 12

Silver Valley at Citrus Valley
After a year of waiting, the Blackhawks will finally play their first game in their swanky new, on-campus stadium. A manageable league and a returning roster have expectations high at Citrus Valley. Playing a feckless Silver Valley team will only make them higher. The Blackhawks will get their first home victory in their first home game.
Citrus Valley 56, Silver Valley 6

Paraclete at Serrano
Paraclete gave Serrano an early wake-up call a year ago, throttling the Diamondbacks' young offensive line in a 13-3 victory. Well, that offensive line isn't so young anymore, as four starters return from a team that went to the Eastern Division championship game. Add in the homefield advantage of Snowline Stadium and Serrano's season starts out nicely.
Serrano 27, Paraclete 9

Ayala at Don Lugo
Two teams that I really don't have a handle on go head-to-head in this game. Ayala has suffered heavy personnel losses in the past two years, going from being a Central quarterfinalist to a team that might struggle in the Sierra League. The Conquistadores lost some top-line talent last year in George Uko and Steven Bethley. Once again, I will go with the home team here.
Don Lugo 21, Ayala 16

Other games of interest:
Montclair 27, Ganesha 12
Chaffey 42, Alta Loma 6
Aquinas 24, Desert Hot Springs 13
Chino Hills 30, Lakewood Mayfair 14
Granite Hills 31, Lancaster Eastside 21
El Monte Arroyo 30, Ontario 10
Twentynine Palms 38, Xavier Prep 6
Moreno Valley 20, Rialto 14
Ridgecrest Burroughs 41, Hesperia 13
Ontario Christian 23, Whittier Christian 21
Yucca Valley 26, Rubidoux 17
Pasadena Maranatha 23, Big Bear 17

It's no surprise that Ayala and Upland received some superlative honors from winning their respective CIF titles. Upland coach Bubba DeJournett earned the Division 2 Coach of the Year award while Ayala pitcher Jessica Hall and coach John Ameluxen swept the Player and Coach of the Year awards in D3.

DIVISION 2
Player of the Year - Taylor Edwards, Vista Murrieta (12) Catcher
Coach of the Year - Bob "Bubba" DeJournett, Upland
FIRST TEAM
Ashley Beza, California, 12, Pitcher
Sierra Curley, Canyon Springs, 12, Pitcher
Whitney Jones, Upland, 12, Pitcher
Brooke White, Temecula Valley, 12, Pitcher
Ashley Holmes, La Serna, 12, Catcher
Jessica Garcia, Redlands, 12, Catcher
Eliza Crawford, Lakewood, 12, Infield
Kylee Lahners, Laguna Hills, 11, Infield
Mahriseh Medina, Mayfair, 12, Infield
Ane Pahulu, Ramona, 9, Infield
Shelby Pickett, Chaparral, 11, Infield
Pauline Monreal, La Mirada, 12, Outfield
Tatum Edwards, Vista Murrieta, 12, Utility

SECOND TEAM
Arianna Erceg, Palos Verdes, 12, Pitcher
Katherine Macias, Arlington, 11, Pitcher
Katie Saunders, Mira Costa, 10, Catcher
Jasmine Watson, Beckman, 12, Catcher
Sarah Carrosco, Lakewood, 12, Infield
Alanna Haskell, Chaparral, 12, Infield
Krista Mele, California, 12, Infield
Amy Nece, Redlands East Valley, 12, Infield
Jessica O'Donnell, Long Beach Wilson, 12, Infield
Michelle Solomon, Redlands, 11, Infield
Maria Sio, Laguna Hills, 11, Infield
Katrina Weber, Bellflower, 11, Infield

Ayala didn't waste much time replacing the retired Mel Sims, as it promoted newly-hired assistant coach Amy Campbell to take the head job last week.

Campbell, 29, has been a jack of all trades in the Chino Valley Unified School District, serving as the head coach for the Chino High girls basketball team, an assistant coach for Ayala's CIF-championship winning softball team and a teacher at Magnolia Junior High School. She's happy that she only has to wear one hat this upcoming year.

"I just got hired as a social studies teacher, so I'll be able to stay on this campus," Campbell said. "I've been willing to teach or coach anywhere where I'm needed, but it will be great to just wear red and black."

Campbell was hired initially to be the coach-in-waiting to Sims, 69, who has constructed Ayala into one of the elite programs in Southern California, taking over after a year or two under Sims' tutelage. But Sims' retirement accelerated the timetable, though he will consult with Campbell on the side while she gets her feet wet.

"We were going to have Amy gradually take over the program from Mel, but Mel's daughter is going to be a senior next year and plays soccer," Ayala athletic director Steve Martin said. "Basketball and soccer season run at the same time, so Mel decided to step down. Once he did, Amy was our No. 1 target."

Campbell was offered the job after the Bulldogs defeated Bonita in the CIF-SS Division 3 softball semifinals. Martin came up to her after the game while she was in celebration mode and she eagerly accepted.

More than a week later, the eagerness hasn't faded.

"I'm ready to go," Campbell said. "We start Monday and I can't wait to get this thing started. I'm hoping to continue the great things Mel brought here and add a few wrinkles of my own."

County qualifiers and top alternates for Friday's CIF-Masters Track Meet at Cerritos College in Norwalk.

BOYS
100 meters: Davonte Stewart, Miller. Alternate: Justin Harris, Upland.
200: Josh Mance, Don Lugo; Davonte Stewart, Miller
400: Josh Mance, Don Lugo; Laijon White, Rancho Cucamonga
3,200: Daniel Rosales, Apple Valley; Dustin Fay, Rim of the World
110 hurdles: Devon Blackmon, Summit; Jered Bell, Colony. Alternate: Demi Adegoke, Los Osos
300 hurdles: Darron Usher, Eisenhower
High jump: Aaron Hale, Upland; De'Marrio Brooks, San Gorgonio; Larry Roberson, Granite Hills.
Triple jump: Justin Lovingood, Summit; Jaelen Spencer, Sultana. Alternate: Jonathan Chea, Cajon

GIRLS
100 meters: Brea Buchanan, Ayala; Omunique Thomas, Carter. Alternate: Treasurie Hatten, Victor Valley
200: Alternate: Omunique Thomas, Carter
400: Vanessa Jones, Etiwanda
3,200: Alternate: Melissa Telon, Rancho Cucamonga
100 hurdles: Brea Buchanan, Ayala; Shanice Stewart, Carter
300 hurdles: Ashley Cooke, Colony; Jordie Munford, Etiwanda; Haley Sanner, Cajon. Alternate: Ke'Nya Hardge, Miller
4x100 relay: Summit, Cajon, Los Osos
4x400 relay: Colony, Etiwanda
High jump: Ashley Henry, Rancho Cucamonga
Long jump: Shanice Stewart, Carter; Ashlie Curenton, Silverado
Triple jump: Mayra Carter, Alta Loma; Jenna Nordschow, Ayala
Pole vault: Nicole Larson, Upland
Shot put: Erin Randolph, Yucaipa

When I was covering the CIF-SS Masters Swimming Meet on Tuesday at Belmont Plaza Pool in Long Beach, I neglected to mention that all three of the Redlands East Valley boys relay teams competed. Those three relay teams were the only boys relay teams from the entire San Bernardino County to compete at the Masters Meet.
And to make it even more remarkable, REV did not have a single individual boy qualify for Masters, either. (Tori Andreas did on the girls side.) It's a cliche, but I guess it's a case of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.
The omitted relay team, the medley relay, was originally an alternate but got a shot to race and moved up from 20th best time coming in to 19th.

So, here are those relay teams:
200 medley relay (senior Shane Blake 26.23 seconds, senior Michael Gillotti 28.07, senior Taylor Glasgow 25.27, junior John Fee 22.06), 20th best qualifying time, finished 19th, 1:41.63.
200 freestyle relay (senior Taylor Adams 22.28, junior Michael Gardner 21.83, senior Ben Hamada 21.95, John Fee 21.88), 6th best qualifying time, finished 7th, 1:27.94.
400 freestyle relay (Shane Blake 48.66, Taylor Adams 49.35, Ben Hamada 50.02, Michael Gardner 48.53), 12th best qualifying time, finished 10th, 3:16.56.

Ayala was the only school from the county to have girls relay teams compete at Masters, but they had to settle for two of the three races. The 200 medley relay team was 11th and the 200 freestyle relay was ninth.

Eight San Bernardino County players make up the list of CIF-SS All-Stars who will face off against the L.A. City Section All-Stars on Saturday April 24 at 5 p.m. at El Camino College.

Making the team are Etiwanda center Jasmine Bernard, Colony forward Te'onna Campbell, Ayala forward Rhema Gardner, Ayala guard Ariel Marsh, Miller forward Cassandra Mitchell, Chino Hills guard Ericka Norman, Summit guard and All-Sun Player of the Year Adrienne Thomas and Miller guard Chloe Wells. Wells and Mitchell did not play this year, as they were forced to sit out due to CIF-SS transfer rules.

The girls basketball state playoffs locally will be centered on Division 1, with Ayala, Summit and Etiwanda all qualifying. The Bulldogs and SkyHawks will be playing Tuesday at Summit High School while Etiwanda plays at D1-A No. 1 seed Canyon Springs.

Barstow also qualified in Division 3, where it will play at Bakersfield Ridgeview.

Division 1
Washington Prep at No. 1 Long Beach Poly
Stockdale at Carson
Ayala at Summit
Poway at No. 4 Corona Santiago
Narbonne at No. 3 Santa Monica
Etiwanda at Canyon Springs
Troy at San Diego
Taft at No. 2 Clovis West

Division 3
Monroe at No. 1 Santa Margarita
Buena at Birmingham
Academy OLP at Bishop Amat
Clovis North at No. 4 Agoura
Tulare at No. 3 Inglewood
Frontier at Muir
Barstow at Ridgeview
Orange Lutheran at No. 2 Mt. Miguel

Unlike the boys, there's not a team ranked No. 1 in the girls right now - a marked departure from the past couple years. There are a lot of top 5 teams though, led by Ayala's No. 3 ranking in Division I-A.

This week's installment of the rankings sees Summit and Ayala ranked No. 2 and No. 3 in Division I-A and Etiwanda leading a contingent of county teams in DI-AA with a No. 4 ranking. Cajon strangely fell from No. 5 to No. 8 in that division despite not losing a game.

The Ayala Extravaganza, one of the top one-day girls basketball showcases in the Southland will start at 9 a.m. Saturday at Ayala HS and have nine different games going on throughout the day into the evening. One of the featured matchups will take place at 3 p.m., as two-time defending CIF champion Cajon takes on Harbor City Narbonne -- one of the top teams in the Los Angeles City Section. The Cowgirls are currently ranked No. 8 in the CIF-SS Division I-AA polls.

Ayala, the No. 3 team in DI-A, plays DI-AA No. 6 Lynwood at 6 p.m. while Chino Hills plays Perris in a matchup of teams ranked in D1-A at 4:30 p.m. Alta Loma starts off the proceedings with a 9 a.m. matchup against Pasadena Blair.

The complete schedule for the Extravaganza, with all games held at Ayala High School:

9 a.m. - Pasadena Blair vs. Alta Loma
10:30 a.m. - Walnut vs. Anaheim Magnolia
12 p.m. - Playa del Rey St. Bernard vs. Vista Murrieta
1:30 p.m. - Lakewood Mayfair vs. Fullerton Rosary
3 p.m. - Harbor City Narbonne vs. Cajon
4:30 p.m. - Chino Hills vs. Perris
6 p.m. - Ayala vs. Lynwood
7:30 p.m. - Diamond Ranch vs. Ventura
9 p.m. - Long Beach Poly vs. Burbank Bellarmine-Jefferson

In addition to T.J.'s previous post about REV's Chris Mecate (seeded third) winning the 119 pound title at the Five Counties Wrestling Invitational last Friday, there were seven more wrestlers from the county who placed at state.

The were three county wrestlers placing in the 112 pound class, as Oak Hills' unseeded Ray Delgado was second, Sultana's unseeded Matt Welch was fifth and Ayala's unseeded Andrew Delgado was eighth.

At 135 pounds, Victor Valley's unseeded Chris Swayze took seventh, while Carter's Chuck Wilson, also unseeded was eighth at 140. REV's sixth-seeded Andrew Hudson took seventh at 215 and Sultana's fifth-seeded Manny Mazariegos was third at heavyweight.

There were eight wrestlers in each weight class seeded prior to the event, and the top eight placed. As far as I can tell, Mecate, Hudson and Mazariegos were the only county wrestlers who were seeded, yet not only did they all place, but five others from the county who were unseeded placed.

Looks to me like county wrestlers are deserving of a little more respect than what was given to them at the seeding meeting.

A three-loss week is a good way to go into the finale. With some of these games starting in 90 minutes or less, time to man up and make some picks.

Redlands East Valley at Redlands
This isn't until tomorrow, but a crosstown rivalry between the No. 1 and No. 5 teams in the area, who are both undefeated in league going into the league finale, is going to get top billing. That's the way it is. REV has never won three in a row against the Terriers and Dodge Field should be rocking for the first-ever on-campus meeting between the two. However, I think REV has too many weapons.
Redlands East Valley 24, Redlands 17

Etiwanda at Rancho Cucamonga
The battle of teams upset by Los Osos (guess it's disingenuous to call them upsets now) should be a high-scoring doozy, as both of these teams can score from any point of the field. Of course, I said the same thing before Upland and Rancho played in the regular-season finale last year, only to see a 13-2 game in gale-force winds. Barring a hurricane, this should be fun.
Rancho Cucamonga 41, Etiwanda 32

Ayala at Glendora
Ayala has lost two in a row, with a third loss in a row likely sealing a playoff-less fate. Glendora has the capability of rising up, as its already defeated Chino Hills this season. Ayala hasn't fared well against quality competition, which the Tartans certainly are. I'm taking Glendora.
Glendora 23, Ayala 14

Riverside Patriot at Summit
This is the game I'll be at in less than 90 minutes, as for the second straight year Summit has a live-or-die Thursday night game. They made a spirited comeback to beat Bloomington in this spot next year, but shouldn't need one this time around. Summit finishes the job.
Summit 31, Patriot 20

Granite Hills at Barstow
One of two live-or-die Desert Sky League games, as the Aztecs are faced with being shut out of the playoffs a year after going to the CIF final if they lose to Granite Hills, which has already won more games this season than any other time in school history. Even though Barstow's previous three losses have come at home, I'm going with the Aztecs in this spot.
Barstow 26, Granite Hills 21

Ridgecrest Burroughs at Victor Valley
The other DSL elimination game has the resurgent Jackrabbits, fresh off a one-point victory at Barstow, playing the battle-tested Burros. This has been a year of big steps for Victor Valley, which has taken down rivals Apple Valley and Barstow. Add 'making the playoffs' to those steps.
Victor Valley 24, Ridgecrest Burroughs 19

Ontario Christian at Aquinas
For the 8th straight year, this game is going to decide the Christian League title. Both of these teams have had their share of ups and downs to get to this point, but all is good in the Christian League world apparently. It's been good for the Falcons in this matchup the last two years and I think it will be again, as Aquinas has too many weapons for the Knights.
Aquinas 35, Ontario Christian 17

Garey at Don Lugo
The Vikings have had quite a resurgence and have the horses to come in and upset Don Lugo, which boasts two elite players in DT George Uko and DB/RB Steven Bethley. Garey has some players, but I have a feeling that they'll have to wait a year for their turn.
Don Lugo 27, Garey 17

Apple Valley at Hesperia
League play has been rocky for both of these schools, but things have fallen to where winning this game will make things a heck of a lot more enjoyable for one of the two. Apple Valley has just missed the playoffs the last two years and should finish the job this time around.
Apple Valley 34, Hesperia 16

Cajon at Arroyo Valley
Seems weird to have an SAL game this far down on the list, but there's no league championship or playoff invitation being settled in this matchup - just second and third place. However, this will be a fun game to watch, as junior QBs Thomas Carter (Cajon) and Michael Yearwood (Arroyo Valley) should star. I'll go with the Cowboys in a close one.
Cajon 30, Arroyo Valley 27

Other games of note:

Los Osos 45, Alta Loma 6
Upland 23, Claremont 10
Miller 53, Eisenhower 20
Yucaipa 37, Carter 34
Fontana 28, Rialto 14
Big Bear 20, Desert Hot Springs 16
Yucca Valley 24, Desert Mirage 13
Serrano 48, Sultana 0
Colony 45, Montclair 7
Chaffey 38, Ontario 0
Colton 60, Pacific 0
San Gorgonio 48, San Bernardino 31
Chino Hills 41, Diamond Bar 10
Damien 37, Chino 6
Kaiser 51, Jurupa Valley 0
Norte Vista 34, Bloomington 14
Arrowhead Christian 20, Boron 18
Oak Hills 55, Citrus Valley 6

Week: 25-3
Overall: 226-58

Now to a pretty complicated one. Lots of ins and outs and what-have-yous in the Sierra, especially when you factor in a possible at-large berth.

1) Chino Hills (7-2, 3-1): Clinches a playoff spot with a victory tomorrow against Diamond Bar. Will clinch the No. 1 seed with a win and losses by Glendora and Damien, or a win and a Glendora loss, as the Huskies own the head-to-head tiebreaker with Damien. Would get the No. 2 seed with a win, a Damien loss and a Glendora win, as Glendora owns the head-to-head tiebreaker with Chino Hills. If Chino Hills, Glendora and Damien all win, a three-way flip for seeding ensues, as each team is 1-1 against the others.
Now, if Chino Hills was shocked by Diamond Bar, hilarity could ensue. A Chino Hills loss and wins by Glendora and Damien would put the Huskies in the No. 3 spot. A loss and a Damien loss would put the Huskies No. 2 by virtue of their tiebreaker over Damien. A loss and a Glendora loss to Ayala would create a three-way tie for third and a coinflip would be held to determine the two spots, as each team would be 1-1 against the other two. A loss by Chino Hills, Damien and Glendora would create a four-way tie for first. In this situation, Chino Hills would get first, as its 2-1 record against the other three teams would be equal to Damien's and head of the 1-2 mark for Glendora and Ayala. At that point, Chino Hills would win the head-to-head tiebreaker against Damien for the No. 1 seed.
So basically, the only way Chino Hills doesn't get an automatic spot is a loss, a Glendora loss and a Damien win. That being said, the Huskies would have a great chance at the at-large against Etiwanda or Claremont. Not so much against Upland though.

2) Glendora (6-3, 3-1): Clinches a playoff spot with a victory tonight over Ayala. Clinches the No. 1 seed with a win, a Damien loss and a Chino Hills win by virtue of owning the head-to-head with Chino Hills. Clinches the No. 2 seed with a win, a Damien win and a Chino Hills loss by virtue of Damien holding the head-to-head tiebreaker over Glendora. A win by all three teams will cause a three-way flip for seeding, as they all would be 1-1 against the others.
A loss to Ayala would throw things in flux. A loss coupled with wins by Damien and Chino Hills would leave Ayala and Glendora tied for third, with Ayala getting the seed by virtue of its head-to-head win. A loss coupled with a Damien loss would also leave the Tartans out, as Damien would be 2-0 against the other two teams, Ayala would be 1-1 and Glendora 0-2. A loss coupled with a Chino Hills loss would cause a three-way flip for two spots, as Chino Hills, Glendora and Ayala would have 1-1 records against the other two. A loss by all three would cause a four-way tie for first and Glendora would be left out, as Chino Hills and Damien would grab the two two spots by virtue of their 2-1 records against the other three, leaving Glendora and Ayala head-to-head for the third spot, which Glendora would lose.
Basically, Glendora needs to win. There's only one loss scenario that can get them in the playoffs, and they'd lose out in the at-large debate to everyone in the Baseline League except possibly Claremont.

3) Damien (4-5, 3-1): Has already clinched a playoff spot. Clinches the No. 1 seed with a win, a Glendora win and a Chino Hills loss, as it owns the tiebreaker over Glendora. Clinches the No. 2 seed with a win, a Chino Hills win and a Glendora loss, as Chino Hills owns the tiebreaker over the Spartans. A win by all three would cause a three-way flip for seeding, as each team has a 1-1 record against the other two.
A loss to Chino only matters because it would eliminate any possibility of the Spartans getting the top seed. A loss coupled with wins by Glendora and Chino Hills would tie Damien with Ayala for third, giving the Spartans the No. 3 seed by virtue of owning the tiebreaker against Ayala. A loss and a Chino Hills loss would make Damien the No. 3 seed as well, as Damien loses the tiebreaker to Chino Hills. A loss plus a Glendora loss would put Damien, Glendora and Ayala in a three-way tie for second, with Damien getting the No. 2 seed because of a 2-0 record against the other two. A loss by Damien, Chino Hills and Glendora would cause a four-way tie for first. Damien and Chino Hills would separate as the top two seeds thanks to their 2-1 records against the other three, with Damien getting the No. 2 seed due to Chino Hills holding the tiebreaker.

4) Ayala (6-3, 2-2): Basically Ayala clinches a playoff spot with a win over Glendora in every scenario but one. That scenario would be a win coupled with a Damien win and a Chino Hills loss, which would cause a three-way flip between Chino Hills, Glendora and Ayala for the last two spots, as each team is 1-1 against the others. A win and wins by Chino Hills and Damien puts the Bulldogs tied with third with Glendora, giving them the No. 3 seed by virtue of the win over Glendora. A win, a Chino Hills win and a Damien loss would put Ayala in the No. 3 spot as well, as Damien would win the tiebreaker for the No. 2 spot by virtue of wins against the other two, while Ayala would beat out Glendora in the head-to-head tiebreaker.
A loss and Ayala is left hoping for an at-large. And unless Claremont is the eligible at-large from the Baseline League, the Bulldogs will not get the extra spot.

5) Diamond Bar (1-8, 1-3): Eliminated from playoff consideration.

6) Chino (0-9, 0-4): Eliminated from playoff consideration.

Kaiser pitcher Alyssia Palomino will sign a letter of intent to play softball at Auburn on Thursday, according to an e-mail sent a few minutes ago by Kaiser softball coach John Stevens. The signing will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday in the principal's conference room at the high school. Wednesday is the first day of the Fall National Signing Period.

Other softball players expected to sign Wednesday are Aquinas pitcher Stevie Goldstein (Loyola Marymount), Chino Hills second baseman Talee Snow (UCLA) and Ayala pitcher Jessica Hall (UCLA). E-mail me at tj.berka@inlandnewspapers.com or comment on this blog if you know of any other signings going down this week.

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

A couple of significant volleyball tournaments will take place this weekend as Redlands East Valley and Ayala host tournaments for teams looking to cram for playoff play in a couple of weeks.

The 2009 REV Volleyball Classic -- a one-day, 12-team tourney on Saturday -- will feature the Wildcats, the No. 1 team in the most recent CIF-SS Division II-AA polls. Along with Redlands East Valley, the field includes Sultana, Yucaipa and several teams from Riverside County, most notably Division 2-A No. 1 Wildomar Elsinore and 3-AA No. 3 Palm Springs. Action starts at 8 a.m. with three four-team pools - pool A (Elsinore, Riverside Poly, Sultana, Yucaipa), pool B (REV, Temecula Chaparral, Riverside King, Paloma Valley) and pool C (Palm Springs, Corona, Temescal Canyon, Norco).

The Bulldog Classic at Ayala will take place Friday and Saturday. Joining the host Bulldogs will be Rancho Cucamonga -- the No. 9 team in Division 1-A -- and San Andreas League leader Cajon.

With the fall signing period coming up next month, basketball recruiting is starting to pick up. Three county players have made verbal commitments to Division I schools.

Ayala senior Rhema Gardner verbally committed to UCLA earlier this week according to ESPN.com, joining her older sister and former All-Sun first-team selection Rebekah Gardner. The 6-foot-2 Gardner averaged 12.9 points and 11.1 rebounds for the Bulldogs last season.

Chino Hills guard Derek Brown also made his choice according to Scout.com and picked San Jose State after an official visit last month. Brown, a 6-foot-2 senior, won Sierra League MVP honors by averaging 16.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

But it wasn't just seniors who committed this week. Etiwanda junior swingman Byron Wesley, an all-Sun first-team selection at Cajon last year, committed to USC according to Rivals.com. The 6-foot-5 Wesley averaged 18.7 points and 7.4 rebounds as a sophomore.

Not much change here. Serrano whipped Rim of the World, so the Diamondbacks rejoin the rankings while the Scots fall out after a one-week appearance. And I must say, I'm getting very tempted to jump REV over Rancho.

Sun Top 10

1. Rancho Cucamonga (6-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: def. Claremont, 52-24. Up next: Friday at Los Osos (2-4)

2. Redlands East Valley (6-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. Fontana, 48-0. Up next: Friday at Rialto (0-6)

3. Upland (6-0)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: def. Los Osos, 17-0. Up next: Friday vs. Alta Loma (0-6).

4. Colton (5-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. Arroyo Valley, 31-14. Up next: Friday at San Bernardino (1-5).

5. Colony (5-1)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: def. Ontario, 55-10. Up next: Friday vs. Garey (3-3).

6. Chino Hills (5-1)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: def. Damien, 38-6. Up next: Friday at Chino (0-6).

7. Barstow (5-1)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: def. Ridgecrest Burroughs, 28-21. Up next: Friday vs. Silverado (5-2).

8. Redlands (5-1)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. Eisenhower, 49-7. Up next: Friday vs. Yucaipa (3-3).

9. Etiwanda (4-2)
Previous ranking: 10. Last week: def. Alta Loma, 61-17. Up next: Friday at Claremont (4-2).

10. Serrano (4-2)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Rim of the World, 35-7. Up next: Friday at Apple Valley (3-3).

Just missed the cut: Ayala (5-1), Kaiser (3-3), Rim of the World (6-1), Silverado (5-2)

Dropped out: No. 9. Rim of the World (6-1).

My new rankings for this week. We finally welcome Rim of the World and their 6-0 start.

Sun Top 10

1. Rancho Cucamonga (5-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: def. Covina Charter Oak, 48-28. Up next: Friday vs. Claremont (4-1)

2. Redlands East Valley (5-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. Yucaipa, 35-7. Up next: Friday vs. Fontana (2-3)

3. Upland (5-0)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday vs. Los Osos (2-3).

4. Colton (4-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. Kaiser, 14-6. Up next: Friday vs. Arroyo Valley (4-1).

5. Colony (4-1)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday vs. Ontario (1-4).

6. Chino Hills (4-1)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday at Damien (1-4).

7. Barstow (4-1)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. San Bernardino, 49-33 . Up next: Friday at Ridgecrest Burroughs (3-2).

8. Redlands (4-1)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Fontana, 34-7. Up next: Friday at Eisenhower (0-5).

9. Rim of the World (6-0)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Granite Hills, 21-6. Up next: Friday vs. Serrano (3-2).

10. Etiwanda (3-2)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: lost to Covina Charter Oak, 27-26. Up next: Thursday vs. Alta Loma (0-5).

Just missed the cut: Ayala (4-1), Victor Valley (5-0), Kaiser (2-3), Serrano (3-2).

Dropped out: No. 10 Kaiser (2-3).

Cajon drops off the face of the Earth and Kaiser barely hangs on. Will let them play for their spot against Colton.

1. Rancho Cucamonga (4-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday at Temecula Valley (1-3).

2. Redlands East Valley (4-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. Eisenhower, 69-26. Up next: Friday at Yucaipa (3-1).

3. Upland (5-0)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: def. Bloomington, 45-6. Up next: Oct. 16 vs. Los Osos (1-3).

4. Colton (3-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. Chaffey, 35-12. Up next: Friday at No. 10 Kaiser (2-2).

5. Colony (4-1)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: def. No. 10 Kaiser, 19-14. Up next: Oct. 16 vs. Ontario (1-4).

6. Etiwanda (3-1)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: def. Chino, 45-14. Up next: Friday at Covina Charter Oak (3-1).

7. Chino Hills (4-1)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. San Gorgonio, 30-14. Up next: Oct. 16 at Damien (1-4).

8. Barstow (3-1)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Hesperia, 35-16. Up next: Friday at San Bernardino (1-3).

9. Redlands (3-1)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Carter, 35-6. Up next: Friday vs. Fontana (2-2)

10. Kaiser (2-2)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: lost to No. 5 Colony, 19-14. Up next: Friday vs. No. 4 Colton (3-1).

Just missed the cut: Arroyo Valley (4-0), Rim of the World (5-0), Ayala (4-1), Victor Valley (4-0).
Dropped out: No. 10 Cajon (3-2).

Everyone is the same, but Kaiser makes a huge move while Barstow and Cajon tumble.

Sun Top 10

1. Rancho Cucamonga (4-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: def. Covina Charter Oak, 35-25. Up next: Oct. 9 at Temecula Valley (0-3)

2. Redlands East Valley (3-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. Orange Lutheran, 20-14. Up next: Friday at Eisenhower (0-3)

3. Upland (4-0)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: def. Lancaster Eastside, 44-0. Up next: Friday at Bloomington (2-1).

4. Colton (2-1)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: def. Palm Springs, 21-12. Up next: Friday vs. Chaffey (2-2).

5. Kaiser (2-1)
Previous ranking: 10. Last week: def. No. 10 Cajon, 20-0. Up next: Friday vs. No. 7 Colony (3-1).

6. Etiwanda (2-1)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday vs. Chino (0-3).

7. Colony (3-1)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. Alta Loma, 30-10. Up next: Friday at No. 5 Kaiser (2-1).

8. Chino Hills (3-1)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Diamond Ranch, 17-14. Up next: Friday vs. San Gorgonio (1-2).

9. Barstow (2-1)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: lost to Quartz Hill, . Up next: Friday vs. Hesperia (2-1).

10. Cajon (3-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: lost to No. 5 Kaiser, 20-0. Up next: Friday vs. La Quinta (1-2).

Just missed the cut: Arroyo Valley (3-0), Redlands (2-1), Rim of the World (4-0), Ayala (3-1).

Dropped out: None.

Brand new. Colony breaks in with some vigor.

Sun Top 10

1. Rancho Cucamonga (3-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: def. Carter, 49-18. Up next: Friday at Covina Charter Oak (3-0).

2. Redlands East Valley (2-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. San Gorgonio, 56-10. Up next: Friday vs. Orange Lutheran (1-1) at Orange Coast College.

3. Barstow (2-0)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. Paraclete, 20-10. Up next: Friday vs. Quartz Hill (0-2).

4. Cajon (3-0)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: def. Sultana, 41-0. Up next: Friday vs. No. 10 Kaiser (1-1).

5. Upland (3-0)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. Serrano, 21-18. Up next: Friday vs. Lancaster Eastside (0-2) at Antelope Valley College.

6. Colton (1-1)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. La Quinta, 23-8. Up next: Friday vs. Palm Springs (2-0).

7. Etiwanda (2-1)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: lost to Norco, 37-27. Up next: Oct. 2 vs. Chino (0-2).

8. Colony (2-1)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. No. 9 Chino Hills, 22-6. Up next: Friday vs. Alta Loma (0-3).

9. Chino Hills (2-1)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: lost to No. 8 Colony, 22-6. Up next: Friday vs. Diamond Ranch (1-2).

10. Kaiser (1-1)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: lost to Riverside North, 28-12. Up next: Friday at No. 4 Cajon (3-0).

Just missed the cut: Redlands (2-1), Arroyo Valley (2-0), Ayala (2-1), Rim of the World (3-0).

Dropped out: No. 10 Serrano (1-2).

The updated top 10. With two top 5 teams taking a tumble, there was quite a bit of shuffling.

Sun Top 10

1. Rancho Cucamonga (1-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: def. Damien, 27-14. Up next: Friday vs. Moreno Valley Canyon Springs (0-0).

2. Redlands East Valley (0-0)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday vs. Clovis East (0-1).

3. Colton (0-0)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday vs. Vista Murrieta (0-0).

4. Chino Hills (1-0)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: def. Lakewood Mayfair, 30-6. Up next: Friday vs. No. 10 Chaffey (1-0).

5. Barstow (0-0)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday vs. Rialto (0-0)

6. Kaiser (0-0)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday at Apple Valley (0-0).

7. Etiwanda (1-0)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Summit, 20-17. Up next: Friday vs. Temecula Valley (0-0)

8. Cajon (1-0)
Previous ranking: 10. Last week: def. Duarte, 55-0. Up next: Friday at Eisenhower (0-0).

9. Upland (1-0)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Miller, 23-8. Up next: Friday vs. Glendora (0-0)

10. Chaffey (1-0)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Alta Loma, 34-10. Up next: Friday at No. 4 Chino Hills (1-0).

Just missed the cut: Serrano (0-1), Los Osos (1-0), Ayala (1-0), Miller (0-1)

Dropped out: No. 4 Miller (0-1), No. 5 Serrano (0-1).

Before prediciting this weekend's games, here is my Top 10 that ran in The Sun Sunday.

1. Rancho Cucamonga
A CIF champion with a USC-bound tight end (Randal Telfer) and a Division I athlete at quarterback in Greg Watson seems like a good No. 1 to me. It'll be interesting to see how the defense jells, but the offense will be scary good.

2. Redlands East Valley
This has almost become a default pick, as the Wildcats have it rolling to that extent. With third-year starting QB Tyler Shreve being a Division I level quarterback and a tenacious defense led by DE Andrew Hudson, REV is the favorite in the CBL.

3. Colton
The Yellowjackets struggled, at least in comparison to most Colton teams last year, going 6-4-1. But most of the team returns and there is speed to burn in RB/DB Derrick Malone, DB Jonathan Mack and junior QB Jordan Mixon.

4. Miller
If Jeff Steinberg was still coaching, the Rebels would be at least No. 2 and even have an argument (though not a great one) for No. 1. But with freshman coach Jeff Strycula being hired late, I'm taking a bit of a wait-and-see look right now.

5. Serrano
The Diamondbacks are pretty darn tough even without Division I talent. But with RB Dionza Bradford and DE Everett Beed both committed to UNLV, Serrano has top-level personnel. That could make 2009 a special year in Phelan.

6. Chino Hills
This team pretty much made me look stupid last year and I refuse to underrate them this year. They came within a last-second touchdown of beating Los Osos in the Central quarters and have ball-hawking safety Ifo-Ekpre Olomu and QB Ryan Verdugo back.

7. Barstow
The Aztecs almost pulled off the huge upset in the CIF title game, battling Citrus Hill to the wire in the 31-27 loss. Barstow will be experienced (32 lettermen returning) and physical in their double-wing offense and have all the makings of a title contender.

8. Kaiser
Dick Bruich may be gone, but the talent isn't. USC-bound running back Anthony Brown will lead a physical, run-oriented offense while defensive end/linebacker Josh Shirley, a top 150 recruit, is an absolute matchup nightmare for opposing offenses.

9. Etiwanda
The Eagles should fly this year behind do-everything dual-threat QB Angel Santiago and star WR Bobby Ratliff. With Los Osos and Upland dealing with major graduation losses, the door is open for Etiwanda to move up the Baseline pecking order.

10. Cajon
The Cowboys lose several impact players from its 11-2, SAL championship team from a year ago, the biggest being RB Walter Kazee (San Diego State) and CB/WR Marlon Pollard (UCLA), but the Cowboys still should be an SAL factor.

Others receiving consideration: Summit, Ayala, Hesperia, Chaffey.

Yes, I realize I still have a few more teams to highlight, but high school football action starts tonight with Colony-Los Osos and Montclair-Ganesha. So we will do our Week 0 picks, where I try to look smart and end up sounding like something else. On that note...

Colony at Los Osos
The namepower of this game is pretty intense, as the Titans are just a season removed from back-to-back Central Division titles while the Grizzlies are just a season removed from three straight Baseline League titles. But both come into 2009 with something to prove.
Colony, which backslid to third place in the Mt. Baldy League last year, needs to show that 2008 was an aberration - not a trend. Los Osos loses quarterback Richard Brehaut and running back Arby Fields and will depend on 6-foot-5 senior quarterback Blake Loncar, who was accomplished at the JV level.
I'll go with Osos on this one due to homefield advantage and general skepticism about Colony.
Los Osos 21, Colony 13

Miller at Upland
Just wrote a bunch about this game for Friday's paper, but the main focus is on two things. First off, how will Miller do with Jeff Strycula taking over for Jeff Steinberg? He has some offensive weapons in QB Juan Flores and RB David Dash, but a new coaching staff plus some drama from the hazing incident leaves questions.
Upland has to replace a three-year starting QB in Josh Nunes (Stanford), RB Davion Fleming (Northwestern) and CB Osahon Irabor (Arizona State), which will be a tough task. How well are they able to do that in the early season?
I'm tempted to pick Upland here, but I have Miller ranked higher. I'll stay true to my rankings at this point.
Miller 26, Upland 24

Summit at Etiwanda
The SkyHawks are stepping up their game a notch as far as nonleague scheduling, with Etiwanda joining Redlands and Silverado on a ratched-up slate. Summit broke through with an 8-3 record last year and have a talented QB duo in juniors Josh Owes and Devon Blackmon, who will see a lot of time at WR.
Etiwanda was a mere point away from upsetting Cajon and had several other close losses in a 5-6 season this year. I'd expect a couple of those losses to turn into wins for the Eagles this year.
Etiwanda 34, Summit 23

Serrano at Paraclete
Ray Maholchic and the Diamondbacks don't exactly screw around during the nonleague schedule and this is no different, as Paraclete won the Mid-Valley championship a year ago. This will be a doozy, as Serrano outlasted Paraclete 35-28 at home a year ago and are going into the Antelope Valley for a rematch.
Expect another classic, but the result to be the same.
Serrano 27, Paraclete 24

Silverado at Gardena Serra
I just got done trumping up Serrano's schedule, but no one has a more masochistic nonleague schedule year in and year out than Silverado. I'm pretty sure if USC has a bye week next year, Carl Posey will be on the phone to Pete Carroll trying to set something up. Ok, I'm overreacting but still, starting with the Northwest Division champions is pretty crazy. Should be a fun game at the very least.
Serra 38, Silverado 26

Redlands at Temecula Oak
The senior-laden Terriers weren't able to fulfill their high expectations a year ago, going 5-6 with several close losses. Redlands will be younger but still should be tough in the trenches, which will be essential against a Temecula Oak team that comes from the tough Southwestern League.
Redlands 19, Temecula Oak 16

Damien at Rancho Cucamonga
A rout of Damien in the opener last year got the Cougars rolling last year, a roll that didn't stop until they won the Central Division championship. Damien has a new coach and a new approach, but that won't matter at all against the No. 1 team in the coverage area.
Rancho Cucamonga 35, Damien 16

Don Lugo at Ayala
If you look at last year, this should be a mismatch, as the Bulldogs were co-Sierra League champions while the Conquistadores couldn't make the playoffs in a questionable Mt. Baldy League. But Don Lugo has the top end talent in DT George Uko and DB Steven Bethley to make things uncomfortable for Ayala. I'm expecting a Bulldog victory, but it'll be tough.
Ayala 23, Don Lugo 17

Rim of the World at Banning
Two years ago, this game would have been a laugher, as Banning was one of the worst teams in the Southern Section. But they had a renaissance last year, sending out Dick Bruich and Kaiser in the first round of the playoffs last year. Against a Rim team that will be feeling its way early, Banning should have its way.
Banning 27, Rim of the World 10

Alta Loma at Chaffey
The Jose Fuentes era at Alta Loma starts with a tough matchup against the physical Tigers, led by RB Ronald Douglas and OL Jesus Cortez. Beating Chaffey is probably a little too much to ask of the Braves at this point.
Chaffey 23, Alta Loma 12

Other games of note:
Montclair 23, Ganesha 18
Big Bear 49, Simi Valley Grace Brethren 31
Cajon 26, Duarte 13
Yucca Valley 24, El Centro Central 20
Chino Hills 30, Lakewood Mayfair 25
Ontario Christian 38, Whittier Christian 17
Twentynine Palms 28, Indio 23
Western Christian 21, Covina Gladstone 6
Ontario 34, La Verne Lutheran 10

Offense
MVP - A.J. Johnson, RB, Chino Hills

First Team
Drew Kaluzny, QB, Sr., Glendora
Andre Holmes, RB, Jr., Glendora
Courtney Samuel, RB, Sr., Ayala
Sylvester Stewart, RB, Sr., Diamond Bar
Chad Young, FB, Sr., Glendora
Wallace Gonzalez, WR, So., Glendora
Taylor Herrera, WR, Sr., Damien
Cody Ruiz, WR, Sr., Chino Hills
Aaron Stockham, WR, Jr., Glendora
Joel Baez, TE, Sr., Glendora
Cody Craver, T, Sr., Chino Hills
Chase Sipple, T, Sr., Damien
Cody Tescher, T, Sr., Glendora
Thomas Lilly, G, Sr., Glendora
Shane Sweeney, G, Sr., Chino Hills
John Gallardo, C, Sr., Glendora

Second Team
Ryan Verdugo, QB, Jr., Chino Hills
Robert Ignacio, RB, Sr., Diamond Bar
Jared Taylor, RB, Sr., Chino
Brandyn White, RB, Sr., Chino
Aaron Bales, WR, Sr., Diamond Bar
Obum Gwacham, WR, Sr., Ayala
Nate Harris, WR, So., Chino Hills
Colin Lockett, WR, Sr., Diamond Bar
Ryne Morrison, WR, Jr., Damien
Jace Dyson, TE, Jr., Chino
Derek Fredendall, T, Sr., Glendora
Curtis Mowery, T, Jr., Ayala
John Brandt, G., Sr., Diamond Bar
Adam Cychner, G, Sr., Damien
Chris Alarcon, C, Sr., Chino Hills

Athlete of the Year: David Quiroga, Sr., Ayala

Defense
MVPs: Lawrence Larivee, Sr., Ayala; Chad Young, Sr., Glendora

First Team
Ryan Castro, DL, Sr., Ayala
Josh Rottler, DL, Jr., Chino Hills
Jake Salter, DL, Sr., Damien
Nathan Tourtellotte, DL, Sr., Glendora
Michael Yllanes, DL, Jr., Ayala
Chase Murphy, DE/LB, Sr., Glendora
Jason Reyes, DE/LB, Sr., Damien
Logan Laszcyk, LB, Sr., Chino Hills
Erick Meraz, LB, Sr., Glendora
Justin Robles, LB, Sr., Diamond Bar
Nick Thomas, LB, Jr., Ayala
Derek Brandon, DB, Sr., Ayala
Olomu Ifo-Ekpre, DB, So., Chino Hills
Devin Jackson, DB, Sr., Ayala
Colin Lockett, DB, Sr., Diamond Bar
Alex Arroyo, P, Sr., Ayala
Ethan Betance, P, Sr., Damien

Second Team
Zach Figueroa, DL, Jr., Chino
Obiajulu Okafor, DL, Sr., Damien
Bryan Wright, DL, Sr., Chino
Brandon Cross, DE/LB, Sr., Chino Hills
Trevor Loza, DE/LB, Jr., Chino
Anthony Penalber, LB, Sr., Ayala
Justin Robles, LB, Jr., Ayala
Brock Tracey, LB, Jr., Damien
Andrew Yaroma, LB, Sr., Ayala
Duwani Bankhead, DB, Jr., Glendora
Travis Haywood, DB, Sr., Damien
Dylon Nichols, DB, Jr., Glendora
Jake Vieth, DB, Sr., Damien
Shane Taylor, P, Jr., Chino

Doing this a little early, as I'm off doing the holiday thing for the next two days. Not a bad week last week, though its fair to say that I screwed up games involving public schools in the Redlands Metropolitan Area.

CENTRAL DIVISION

Paloma Valley at No. 1 Rancho Cucamonga
So my upset special wasn't special. Actually, my real upset special was Glendora, but it's all good. Paloma Valley did well, but they'll have their hands full with Rancho, which received quite a scare last week for Colton. Look for Greg Watson and the Rancho passing attack to carry their big fourth quarter over.
Rancho Cucamonga 33, Paloma Valley 20

No. 4 Cajon at Ayala
I was at the Cajon-Etiwanda game last week and it was a hum-dinger, as both teams played their hearts out. The win was big for the Cowboys' psyche, just because they don't have to hear the 'Well, you are just a product of the SAL' talk as much. What they will have to deal with is a darn good Ayala team that can come at you in waves. I picked Ayala before the playoffs and am sticking with that.
Ayala 30, Cajon 27

Glendora at Upland
The jaw-dropping score of the week definitely came from Glendora, which destroyed No. 3 Hemet West Valley. I'll pat my back because I predicted an upset, but I didn't expect the beatdown that took place. Upland beat down Chaffey, which was expected, and plays the Tartans for the third time since last November. Each team has one, and I'm predicting Upland to win the rubber match.
Upland 34, Glendora 28

No. 2 Los Osos at Chino Hills
Richard Brehaut used his legs more than his arm to lead the Grizzlies to victory last week. That's nice, but that ain't going to fly against Chino Hills. The Huskies bulldozed San Gorgonio 52-14 thanks to a monster day from RB A.J. Johnson. Chino Hills keeps plugging along to little fan fare (despite Fowler's exemplary article) and will do so again, "upsetting" Los Osos.
Chino Hills 27, Los Osos 21

EASTERN DIVISION

No. 1 Perris Citrus Hill 36, Palm Desert 25

Serrano at Banning
I'm not going to lie, Banning's win over Kaiser shocked me. I did not see that coming. I guess i should get to know more about Banning, but I don't think they are going to knock off another Eastern power. Serrano trounced La Quinta behind junior RB Dionza Bradford and could very well be the dark horse in this bracket. The Banning story is a good one, but one that will end.
Serrano 28, Banning 14

No. 3 Palm Springs at Barstow
The Aztecs are another one of those teams that doesn't get hype but wins. They can throw three RBs at you in the double-wing and have some massive hombres blocking. But Palm Springs is red-hot and this is pretty much what they do. After whipping Summit, Palm Springs will have its way with Barstow late.
Palm Springs 23, Barstow 16

No. 2 Hesperia at Silverado
Don't look now but the Hawks, who started 0-6, are amazingly still alive and quite a threat behind QB Jemeryn Jenkins. Jenkins is a ridiculous talent, slicing and dicing Patriot for 406 yards last week. However, Hesperia put on a clinic against Notre Dame, barely breaking a sweat in winning 55-27. The rested Scorpions have a little too much sting.
Hesperia 31, Silverado 19

EAST VALLEY DIVISION

No. 1 St. Margaret's at Yucca Valley
Yucca Valley has been an awesome story, recovering from several tattered years to win a De Anza League co-championship and a playoff game. It's a great job Tim Connavo is doing out there. However, this isn't going to be pretty. St. Margaret's hasn't been challenged all year and Yucca, for all their strengths, don't have the ability to.
St. Margaret's 41, Yucca Valley 16

Pasadena Maranatha at Big Bear
The Bears made me look smart, which is hard to do, coming up with the brassy 33-32 upset over No. 4 Santa Paula. It's been a tough year at Big Bear, but you know the Bears will growl at playoff time. I'll be up the hill to watch them take on Maranatha, which is just annoying to type. So I'll predict. I am tempted to take the Bears, but I picked the other team (see what I did there?) last week. Can't change now.
Maranatha 24, Big Bear 20

No. 3 Aquinas at Twentynine Palms
I kind of wish I was at this game Friday, because this one is going to be a war. Aquinas has been rolling over fools this year behind QB Tyler Stirewalt and his merry band of skill-position playmakers, but the Falcons' only loss came to Twentynine Palms - a team that put 63 up on Brethren Christian last week. I expect the Palms to be jumping, but Aquinas to exact revenge.
Aquinas 28, Twentynine Palms 26

No. 2 Brentwood 27, Fillmore 13

INLAND DIVISION

No. 1 Corona Centennial 42, Vista Murrieta 10

No. 4 Miller at Murrieta Valley
The Rebels looked awesome on offense in their 48-21 victory over Roosevelt, gaining well over 500 yards and looking like the juggernaut unit it was last year under A.J. Springer. yeah, Juan Flores and David Dash next year could be mad scary. However, the defense has showed some signs of slippage lately, which won't be helped by Murrieta Valley. I have the Rebels losing a heartbreaker on the road, similar to their loss to Chaparral last year.
Murrieta Valley 28, Miller 23

Redlands East Valley at No. 3 Temecula Chaparral
After impaling the Santiago Sharks, REV looks to take out a Chaparral team that's been hell on the CBL in recent years. The Pumas took out REV two years ago and Miller this year, meaning they have run up quite a tab. The REV offense has erupted lately, but I don't see them evening the bill this week. I will be at the game though to see if I'm wrong and to see if Lindsay Soto is there. I can always hope.
Chaparral 23, Redlands East Valley 19

Norco 27, Riverside North 17

Last week: 26-6. Overall: 232-54-4.

Well, the regular season ended with me going 23-3 overall, giving me a wicked awesome record of 206-48-4. I know, I'm the man, but the playoffs are the true measure of manhood. So we'll break them up to give everyone extra-special attention, starting with the Central Division. And in friendly competition with Clay Fowler, I'll add my complete division picks at the bottom.

Colton at No. 1 Rancho Cucamonga
If I'm Rancho, I'm furious at this matchup. Not necessarily because Colton is great - this isn't a vintage Yellowjacket team - but because preparing for the double-wing is annoying. It's not run very often and its almost impossible for the JV or scout team to simulate. Except some hiccups early from unfamiliarity, Rancho should control this game though.
Rancho Cucamonga 28, Colton 16

Wildomar Elsinore at No. 2 Los Osos
I know that Elsinore went to the title game two years ago and lost to Colony. I know they are south of here. Besides that, I don't know much about them. I know Los Osos can score with Richard Brehaut and Arby Fields and they can defend better than usual. It's the latter which will allow Osos to pull away.
Los Osos 27, Elsinore 10

Etiwanda at No. 4 Cajon
The San Andreas League champion against an at-large. Easy win right? Not so fast. I think this may be the most entertaining game involving local teams in any division, as the Angel Santiago experience will be matchup up with Walter Kazee, Marlon Pollard and his Cajon buddies. This game is pretty big for the SAL's morale, as a loss to the No. 4 Baseline team would be a rough one to swallow. Cajon will gut past a tough-luck Etiwanda squad.
Cajon 34, Etiwanda 31

Colony at Ayala
Colony isn't exactly rolling coming into the playoffs, losing to Chaffey and Ontario down the stretch. But they are the two-time Central champions, which should mean something, even though the Central Division is infinitely better than it was when Colony won. The Titans have talent and will fight, but Ayala will be too much. I'm boring with these picks I know.
Ayala 23, Colony 14

San Gorgonio at Chino Hills
It's almost like I've seen this game before. Oh wait, I have. Actually, I didn't see the 42-20 Huskies win in person, but I seriously enough has changed to drastically alter the result. San G has won five of six since then, but Chino Hills has too much talent and balance.
Chino Hills 31, San Gorgonio 16

Ontario at Paloma Valley
I want to pick an upset. I really do - I almost feel its my duty as a blogger to pick a ridiculous upset, then take the prerequisite ribbing once that pick goes completely to waste. You see where I'm going here. Ontario is scrappy under QB Herman Huezo and will pull the shocker. I guess.
Ontario 18, Paloma Valley 16

Upland at Chaffey
I guess I could have been extremely lame and called this my upset, saying that Upland's No. 3 seed in the Baseline and being on the road is probable cause for calling this an upset. But I'm not going to insult your intelligence any more than I already have. Chaffey's physical running game might do some things early, but Upland has way too much firepower.
Upland 30, Chaffey 12

Other game of note that I'm not writing about because the teams aren't in the County:
Glendora 28, No. 3 Hemet West Valley 24

Quarterfinals
No. 1 Rancho Cucamonga over Ontario
Ayala over No. 4 Cajon
Upland over Glendora
Chino Hills over No. 2 Los Osos

Semifinals
No. 1 Rancho Cucamonga over Ayala
Upland over Chino Hills

Finals
No. 1 Rancho Cucamonga over Upland

Another mediocre week for my picking, as I only went 19-7 in my picks. I'll blame Chino Hills for that...no, actually Chino Hills should blame me for jumping on their bandwagon and causing a flat tire.

Upland at Rancho Cucamonga
Another big Baseline battle, as the team with 3-4 senior Division I prospects this year (Upland) plays the team that will have that many next year (Rancho Cucamonga). Expect lots of passing, lots of scoring and lots of fun. Yeah, it sounds like I'm advertising an afternoon at Knotts Berry Farm, but this one should be a good one. I'm going with the home team because I can't think of any other way to seperate these stud teams.
Rancho Cucamonga 38, Upland 31

Kaiser at Riverside Patriot
It's only fitting that Dick Bruich's last game will be for the Sunkist League championship, something that has been almost taken for granted by Kaiser fans and sportswriters. Like Kaiser, Patriot employs a hard-nosed, downhill running game and a physical defense. But no one plays sock-your-mouth football better than the Cats, at least in the Sunkist League.
Kaiser 23, Patriot 10

Colton at Arroyo Valley
For all intents and purposes, this game is for the final playoff spot in the San Andreas League. Sure, there are some weird coinflips that could happen with upsets and things of the like, but barring a San Berdoo High shocker, this is the game. Colton seems to have a little more momentum coming in and seriously, can you imagine the playoffs without Harold Strauss? Neither can I.
Colton 28, Arroyo Valley 14

Glendora at Ayala
Pop quiz hotshot. You've just beaten your crosstown rival in an upset. What are you going to do? What are you going to do? Host another game with league-championship implications of course. It might be tough for Tom Inglima to get his Bulldogs down from the high of the Chino Hills win but he'll have to, as defending Sierra champion Glendora is no slouch. However, it seems to be a rule in the Sierra League that allows for equal title time in football. So Ayala wins this year and Diamond Bar is the favorite in 2009.
Ayala 31, Glendora 25

Eisenhower at Redlands East Valley
The Eagles played their hearts out last week against Miller, giving the favored Rebels all they could handle before falling 28-21. Unfortunately for Ike, their playoff hopes might have fallen with that game. If Ike can pull an upset on a REV team due for a letdown after the big win over Redlands, then they'll be the biggest Rialto High fans ever - as the Knights have to beat Yucaipa. Unfortunately, it will be too hard to get the first phase of the job done.
Redlands East Valley 23, Eisenhower 9

Colony at Ontario
The Jaguars are a good story this year, as the heroics of quarterback/defensive back Herman Huezo have Ontario in the playoffs for the first time since 2003. Colony was in its infancy as a school back then, but has two CIF titles since the Jags last touched the postseason. The point of all this is even though Colony won't get a Mt. Baldy title, they won't lose to the spunky Jaguars either.
Colony 24, Ontario 6

Victor Valley at Ridgecrest Burroughs
It's pretty amazing that the Jackrabbits, who were winless the previous two seasons before this one, are in a win-and-in situation in this game. It's also amazing that the Burros could either win the league and get the No. 1 seed in the playoffs or miss them entirely based on this game. Such is the life in the Desert Sky League, not usually a bastion for parity. Victor Valley will give it a run, but Burroughs is too tough at home.
Ridgecrest Burroughs 30, Victor Valley 17

Apple Valley at Hesperia
We'll keep it up in the High Desert and take a journey to Hesperia, where the Scorpions can notch their first-ever Mojave River League outright title and set a school record for wins if they beat the Sun Devils. It's been a close-but-no-cigar year for Apple Valley, just to throw a cliche' out there. The Sun Devils have to still be kicking themselves about the second half against Rim of the World, which won't help them upset Hesperia.
Hesperia 35, Apple Valley 20

Arrowhead Christian at Aquinas
The Eagles have been a pleasant surprise, rolling up six wins and setting themselves up for an at-large bid in the East Valley Division playoffs should they lose this game. Unfortunately, should could be replaced by probably, which would ruin the sentence structure but bring up the main point, which is that Aquinas is scary good. QB Tyler Stirewalt put over 300 yards passing on Ontario Christian last week, something he can replicate tomorrow if he chooses.
Aquinas 42, Arrowhead Christian 14

Yucca Valley at Desert Mirage
This is historic, as this is the first time I've ever mentioned Desert Mirage in the main body of this predictions entry. So after I open up a few bottles of champagne, I'll mention how both of these teams are greatly improved and fighting for the last automatic playoff spot out of the De Anza League. Then I'll predict Yucca Valley to win a close one.
Yucca Valley 24, Desert Mirage 22

Other games of note:
Los Osos 31, Etiwanda 21
Alta Loma 21, Claremont 12
Miller 38, Fontana 7
Yucaipa 30, Rialto 14
Redlands 28, Carter 17
Ontario Christian 33, Western Christian 20
Big Bear 28, Desert Hot Springs 10
Barstow 34, Granite Hills 13
Serrano 42, Sultana 0
Rim of the World 45, Lynwood Firebaugh 6
Chaffey 35, Don Lugo 10
Cajon 51, San Bernardino 3
San Gorgonio 34, Pacific 8
Chino Hills 41, Diamond Bar 10
Damien 27, Chino 12
Summit 28, Bloomington 13

Overall record: 183-45-4

Well, this one is pretty simplistic, as the three teams have already been decided. It's that pesky business of seeding that is at play here.

1. Ayala (8-1, 4-0): By virtue of their victory over Chino Hills last week, the Bulldogs will be the fifth different Sierra champion in three years with a victory over Glendora tomorrow. A loss though would either give Ayala the No. 2 seed if Chino Hills loses or subject it to a three-way coin flip for seeding if Chino Hills wins.

2. Chino Hills (8-1, 3-1): Chino Hills' only shot at getting the No. 1 seed involves a win over Diamond Bar and a Glendora win over Ayala. In that case, a three-way flip would take place between the Huskies, Ayala and Glendora. A Glendora loss would give Chino Hills the No. 2 slot no matter what, while a loss and a Glendora win would drop the Huskies to the No. 3 seed.

3. Glendora (6-3, 3-1): The Tartans can win the No. 1 if they beat Ayala and Chino Hills loses to Diamond Bar by virtue of a head-to-head win over Ayala. They'd be in a three-way flip with a win and a Chino Hills win. A loss and a Chino Hills loss would knock Glendora to the No. 3 seed by virtue of Chino Hills' victory over Glendora.

4. Damien (2-7, 1-3): Eliminated from playoff contention.

5. Diamond Bar (4-5, 1-3): Eliminated from playoff contention.

6. Chino (2-7, 0-4): Eliminated from playoff contention.

A little late on all my blogging, so I'll try to catch up a bit. Only real movement this week involved the Sierra League.

1. Miller (9-0)
The Rebels had a letdown against a spirited Eisenhower team and didn't exactly win many style points in their 28-21 triumph. However, I'm not going to down a team for being a little flat after two emotional wins. Plus, the Rebels seem to realize what being No. 1 means - the best effort from every opponent.

2. Rancho Cucamonga (8-0-1)
I kept the Cougars here at two despite another impressive win. However, they have a huge showdown this week with Upland. Get a win there and Rancho might have a good case to jump Miller.

3. Hesperia (9-0)
Winning up on the mountain 41-12, which Hesperia did against Rim of the World, is pretty impressive, especially coming off the emotional win over Serrano. Only Apple Valley stands in the way of an undefeated regular season and plush playoff seed.

4. Upland (8-1)
The Highlanders had to scratch and claw to get away from a game Etiwanda team, but that doesn't deserve any grief. However, a similar performance against Rancho Cucamonga would not be advised.

5. Redlands East Valley (8-1)
The Wildcats aren't flashy and quite frankly, could have very easily gone down to Redlands this weekend. But REV seems to have a "refuse-to-lose" moxie to them, something that will help them immensely in the postseason.

6. Los Osos (7-2)
The Grizzlies took care of Claremont to the surprise of absolutely nobody. But their finale will be a dogfight, as they'll be facing an Etiwanda team that could be playing for its playoff life.

7. Cajon (8-1)
The Cowboys destroyed Arroyo Valley this week, so they earn the right not to get jumped. I was tempted to put Ayala here, but I gave Cajon the benefit of the doubt, if just for this week.

8. Ayala (8-1)
The Bulldogs won "The Bone" again by beating Chino Hills. I'm not sure they recognize the trophy, but Ayala definitely recognizes a chance to be the fifth different Sierra League champion in five years.

9. Chino Hills (8-1)
Tough, tough loss for the Huskies. It will be interesting to see how Chino Hills responds and how much mental toughness they have in comparison to some CHHS teams of the recent past.

10. Kaiser (5-3-1)
Kaiser destroyed Jurupa Valley, which doesn't really surprise anyone. You know that the Cats, who saw Jurupa kill their 31-game Sunkist win streak a year ago, had to feel good about getting revenge. A showdown with Riverside Patriot for the Sunkist League title awaits.

Just missed the cut: Chaffey (7-2), Serrano (6-3), Aquinas (8-1)

Missed the Broncos-Browns game and the college games tonight. Oh well. Maybe I should concentrate more on high schools anyway, as the upsets last week left me an unsatisfactory 16-8 last week. Gotta do better than that.

Redlands at Redlands East Valley
This should be one of the more animated games of the season, with vitrol coming from both sides. Can REV recover from its loss to Miller? Will Redlands hype itself way too much and hit a fatal lull? A couple of interesting things. This game has gone Red-REV-Red-REV-Red-REV the last six years and every year REV has won, its won a league title. It's Redlands' turn in the cycle and REV won't likely win a title, so I'm going with the Terriers.
Redlands 21, Redlands East Valley 17

Ayala at Chino Hills
I pick against Chino Hills quite a bit. They end up making me look dumber than I already am. I'm sick of looking dumb, at least when it comes to Chino Hills. So yeah, I'm picking the Huskies this week. Are you happy? Are you not entertained? Wait, don't answer the last one.
Chino Hills 27, Ayala 22

Arroyo Valley at Cajon
Michael Philipp was honored this week with a berth in the U.S. Army All-American game, a great achievement for the Arroyo Valley offensive lineman. Now if Philipp could carry the ball, the Hawks would be in business. Losing to San Berdoo was definitely a slap in the face, and Cajon is straight ballin' right now. Probably too hard for Arroyo to turn it around this week.
Cajon 31, Arroyo Valley 10

Etiwanda at Upland
Upland should be all hyped-up for a showdown with Rancho Cucamonga next week but can hardly afford to overlook the Eagles in this game. Both of these teams can pass (seriously, who in the Baseline can't?) but I think the Highlanders have a little more talent across the board.
Upland 38, Etiwanda 24

Patriot at Summit
Summit used a lifeline last week against Norte Vista, phoning a friend and getting a 26-point second half to eke out a 32-28 victory after being down 28-6. That isn't going to work against a solid Patriot team that will almost assuredly be the first Patriot/Rubidoux/whatever team to get a playoff berth since 2001. Summit will disrupt a potential Sunkist showdown between Patriot and Kaiser next week with a win.
Summit 27, Patriot 20

Ontario at Chaffey
After the huge overtime win over Colony, it would be easy for the Tigers to strut down Euclid Avenue and feel high and mighty. But this Ontario team, also undefeated in the Mt. Baldy League, can bite them if Chaffey isn't careful. QB Herman Huezo has been a dual-threat force for the Jaguars, but he won't be enough.
Chaffey 34, Ontario 19

Hesperia at Rim of the World
A tricky game for the Scorpions after the big win over Serrano last week, as they have to face a physical Rim team up the mountain, where they are privvy to dealing with fog, snow, smoke and whatever other meterological annoyance is liable to crop up. I think Hesperia has too much depth and too many playmakers though.
Hesperia 35, Rim of the World 16

Aquinas at Ontario Christian
The Ontario Christian spread offense erupted against ACA this past week and just in time, as the Knights were on a four-game win streak. While the Knights have struggled with the new schemes, Aquinas is tossing the ball around effortlessly with QB Tyler Stirewalt and WR Jim Jones. Just way too much firepower on the Falcons' side.
Aquinas 38, Ontario Christian 20

Big Bear at Twentynine Palms
While 29 is looking for its second straight championship, it still has a mountain to climb - figuratively, not literally - against Big Bear. The two teams didn't play last year due to the wildfires in the San Bernardino Mountains and corresponding smoke, so Big Bear gets to defend its honor a bit. I say 29 completes this title though.
Twentynine Palms 28, Big Bear 23

Victor Valley at Barstow
Yes, the Desert Sky League needs love too, especially since Burroughs' win over Silverado made it a four-team clusterbomb for three playoff berths. The Jackrabbits and Aztecs are essentially playing an elimination game in this one, especially Victor Valley, which has Ridgecrest Burroughs on the docket next week. Barstow takes this.
Barstow 32, Victor Valley 21

Other games of note, led by the one I have to leave for in a few minutes:
Miller 28, Eisenhower 6
Carter 24, Yucaipa 20
Fontana 20, Rialto 17
Western Christian 30, Arrowhead Christian 17
Rancho Cucamonga 35, Alta Loma 10
Los Osos 45, Claremont 7
San Gorgonio 31, San Bernardino 13
Colton 48, Pacific 6
Kaiser 45, Jurupa Valley 0
Bloomington 23, Norte Vista 21
Apple Valley 38, Sultana 12
Serrano 31, Ridgecrest Burroughs 23
Silverado 33, Granite Hills 14
Colony 41, Montclair 15
Yucca Valley 30, Acton Vasquez 10
Glendora 24, Chino 10

Overall record: 164-38-4

Lots of topsy-turviness this week, as last week's poll was turned upside down.

1. Miller (8-0)
Congratulations to the Rebels, who shut down previous No. 1 Redlands East Valley, giving the Wildcats their first regular-season loss since September 2006. Miller now can see a Citrus Belt League title staring it in its face.

2. Rancho Cucamonga (7-0-1)
I'm a man of my word if nothing else. I said should Rancho defeat Los Osos, it would make a huge jump. The Cougars did that and now have the pole position in the chase for a Baseline League title. Just a great story, especially given the star power of Osos and Upland.

3. Hesperia (8-0)
The Scorpions took a huge step toward that elusive Mojave River League title, beating a Serrano team that has traditionally been a thorn in its side. A tricky road game at Rim of the World is next, but Hesperia is looking pretty darn good right now.

4. Upland (7-1)
The Highlanders were impressive, showing no hangover from the loss to Los Osos. I felt kind of funny putting Upland past the Grizzlies, but I feel that Los Osos' two losses give me justification for such a move.

5. Redlands East Valley (7-1)
The Wildcats tumble to here, as their inconsistent offensive play finally caught up with them against Miller. It doesn't get much easier for REV, as a tricky crosstown showdown with Redlands next on the docket.

6. Chino Hills (8-0)
Big win for the Huskies at Glendora, as Chino Hills continues to march on. I contemplated moving the Huskies even higher than this, but like with Rancho, they'll eventually get there if they take care of business.

7. Los Osos (6-2)
This was the toughest team to rank, as I almost dropped the Grizzlies to 8th after their loss to Rancho. However, their quality wins are quality, and I couldn't possibly justify putting Los Osos behind a Cajon team that it beat on the road.

8. Cajon (7-1)
The Cowboys actually moved down despite rolling Pacific, but that was more due to big wins by Rancho and Chino Hills than anything the Cowboys did or didn't do. Either way, Cajon stayed on track for a San Andreas League title.

9. Ayala (7-1)
The Bulldogs took care of business against Damien, setting up a huge crosstown showdown with Chino Hills as the Sierra League title hangs in the balance. Should be a great one at Chino Hills High on Friday.

10. Kaiser (4-3-1)
This last spot was tough, as there were 4 or 5 other teams that could have conceivably been in this spot. However, I like the way Kaiser has played of late and would put their three losses (Riverside North, Cajon and Los Osos) against anyone else's. So the Cats get the nod for now.

Just missed the cut: Chaffey (6-2), Etiwanda (5-3), Serrano (5-3).
Dropped out: No. 9 Serrano (5-3).