Recently in Rim of the World High School Category

It only took one day of working in pads for Rim of the World coach Bob Gradillas to remember how nice it was to have a team full of seniors.

"We are so much farther ahead right now than we were at this point last year," Gradillas said. "Everyone is on the same page and working well together and I think our experience from last year is a big reason for that. Even with the first practice the difference was startling."

The Fighting Scots did lose some players from their 4-6 team of a year ago - a team that missed the playoffs for the first time since 2005 - namely running back Dillon Pretzinger, who ran for 1,267 yards and 18 touchdowns a year ago. But Pretzinger missed four games due to injury, something that was a bit of a theme for Rim a year ago.

"We got hit hard by injuries last year and for a while, it was hard for us to do much of anything," Gradillas said. "We lost Dillon, we lost some offensive linemen and it was a struggle. But if anything, the experience those kids got will help us this year."

Catching up on some all-league teams.

Most Valuable Offensive Player - Elizabeth Caporuscio, Sr., Rim of the World
Most Valuable Defensive Player - Nikki Hoffman, So., Citrus Valley
Coach of the Year - April Finazzo, Citrus Valley

First Team
Jasmine Canez, So, Jurupa Hills
Chandler Geary, So, Citrus Valley
Katie Gyll, Sr, Notre Dame
Hayley Jaquess, So, Citrus Valley
Halle Luna, Sr, Notre Dame
Felicity McCafferty, So, Banning
Ashlyn Morris, So, Citrus Valley
Sarah Tribe, Jr, Rim of the World
Taylor Tribe, Jr, Rim of the World
Melanie Vidaurri, So., Citrus Valley
Haley Young, Fr, Notre Dame

Second Team
Vanessa Aguirre, So, Jurupa Hills
Laura Becerra, So, Banning
Brianna Chairez, So, Citrus Valley
Jamie Garner, So, Rim of the World
Julie Goldsberry, So, Rim of the World
Taylor McCafferty, So, Banning
Nichole Moore, Jr, Rim of the World
Sophia Ortega, Jr, Citrus Valley
Monique Rojas, Fr, Jurupa Hills
Stephanie Sandoval, Fr, Rubidoux
Austin Schmidt, Jr, Notre Dame
Katie Schoenauer, Sr, Notre Dame
Andrea Villegas, So, Banning

Honorable Mention
Jesicah Lara, Jr, Banning
Sonia Lopez, Sr, Rubidoux
Brianna Meza, So, Jurupa Hills
Kalene Needham, Jr, Rim of the World
Bailey Powell, Jr, Notre Dame
Katie Witherby, So, Citrus Valley

Rim of the World juniors Sarah Tribe and Taylor Tribe and Chaffey graduate and current University of La Verne softball player Laura Olson will represent USA Athletes International in Australia this summer, as they will join 11 other players from across the country at the Blacktown Softball Challenge June 16-19 in Sydney. Along with playing international squads, the three players will travel across the Gold Coast region of Australia. They were selected based off recommendations from coaches, fellow athletes and athletic professionals.

Five county wrestlers excelled at the NHSCA Wrestling Nationals last weekend. Leading the way was Oak Hills 171-pounder Robert Marchese, who finished second in the junior division. Redlands East Valley senior Chris Mecate, the state champions in the 135-pound division, finished in third in the senior division at nationals, losing in the semifinals to eventual champion Terrel Wilbourn of St. Charles, Mo. 6-4. Mecate defeated Bakersfield's Timmy Box -- who he defeated in the state semifinals -- 7-4 in the third-place match.

Oak Hills had two other wrestlers place in their respective divisions, with Ray Delgado placing fifth at 112 pounds in the senior division and Justin Gilliam placing third in the heavyweight division in the freshman division. Rim of the World junior Christian Smith also finished sixth in the junior division.

The newest league is last but certainly not least. Like the Ambassador, the automatic playoff berths and seedings have been decided.

1. Rubidoux (6-2-1, 4-0): The Falcons have clinched a playoff spot and the No. 1 seed out of the Mountain Valley League regardless of what they do Friday against Banning due to its head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over Notre Dame.

2. Notre Dame (6-3, 3-1): The Titans have clinched a playoff spot and the No. 2 seed out of the Mountain Valley League regardless of what they do Friday against Citrus Valley due to losing the head-to-head to Rubidoux and owning the head-to-head over Rim of the World.

3. Rim of the World (3-6, 2-2): The Fighting Scots are eliminated from automatic playoff consideration due to losing the head-to-head tiebreaker with Notre Dame. However, a win over Jurupa Hills Friday might put it in consideration for an at-large playoff berth.

4. Banning (3-6, 2-2): The Broncos are eliminated from automatic playoff consideration due to losing the head-to-head tiebreaker with Notre Dame. A win over Rubidoux could help toward an at-large berth, but Banning would probably need Rim to lose as well, as the Scots defeated the Broncos earlier in the season.

5. Citrus Valley (3-6, 1-3): Eliminated from playoff consideration.

6. Jurupa Hills (1-6, 0-4): Eliminated from playoff consideration.

Four county teams received seeds in the brackets today, with Redlands East Valley grabbing a No. 2 seed in Division 1-A, Upland Christian grabbing the No. 2 seed in D4-A, Chino Hills getting the No. 4 seed in D2-AA and Rim of the World getting the No. 4 seed in Division 3-A. REV will be going for a fourth straight CIF title. Wild-card games will be played Monday, with first-round games on Tuesday.

Division 1-A
First Round
Villa Park at No. 1 Marymount
Glendora at Paso Robles
Temecula Valley at El Dorado
Estancia at Valencia
Brea Olinda at Vista Murrieta
Marlborough at Upland
Yucaipa at Northwood
Atascadero at No. 4 Laguna Beach
Immaculate Heart at No. 3 Corona del Mar
Arroyo Grande at Foothill
Santa Ana Calvary Chapel at Saugus
Fontana at Los Osos
Esperanza at Sherman Oaks Notre Dame
Beckman at Murrieta Valley
West Ranch at San Luis Obispo
Alta Loma at Redlands East Valley

Big one in Fontana tomorrow heads off this slate. A little better performance last week, only missing two of the featured games, so we'll see if we can't tighten that up a bit more.

Summit at Kaiser
As I was evaluating this game, I suddenly wondered about what would happen if Kaiser had to play in a close game. The Cats have been drilling people - which is why they are No. 1 in the Sun, Daily Bulletin and Eastern Division polls - typically playing a half of football. Odds are that Summit, with Devon Blackmon and Montigo Alford, will test Kaiser like it hasn't been tested before. But I think the Cats will pass that test and continue their special season.
Kaiser 30, Summit 18

Rancho Cucamonga at Etiwanda
The Cougars came up with a big win last week, defeating Upland, but they can't afford to relax against a tricky Etiwanda squad. With QB Larry Cutbirth and RB Marcus Mason, the Eagles could have the most versatile and explosive offense in the county. But their defense gives up points almost as quickly as their offense scores them. Rancho will be tested tonight, but will make enough big plays to win another shootout.
Rancho Cucamonga 42, Etiwanda 34

Miller at Redlands
Last week's unexpected loss to Yucaipa puts Miller in desperation mode coming into this game, as they need to win at least one of the next two against the Redlands schools to have a shot at the playoffs. That's easier said than done though. Theoretically this looks to be the easiest of the two, but it's not that easy. Redlands has bounced back nicely from the REV heartbreaker and will continue to do so.
Redlands 27, Miller 13

Colton at San Gorgonio
Since both of these teams have already lost to Cajon, this matchup between 4-1 SAL teams is more for second place barring any slipups by the first-place Cowboys. San G has caught fire in league play, winning four in a row to jump into the playoff conversation. Colton has been up and down offensively, but their defense should have enough oomph to come through in this one.
Colton 21, San Gorgonio 14

Chino Hills at Charter Oak
The last time the Huskies went on the road against a Sierra newcomer, they fell in a classic to Claremont. Charter Oak has the talent and the coaching to give the Huskies problems, but the Chino Hills offense has caught fire after a tough start to the season. Expect Chino Hills to overpower Charter Oak just enough offensively for its defense to bring it home late.
Chino Hills 28, Charter Oak 14

Ridgecrest Burroughs at Silverado
This matchup between the Desert Sky League favorites was complicated a bit by Silverado's surprising loss to Granite Hills a couple weeks ago, as the Hawks are not only playing to get another DSL title, but to stay alive in the playoff hunt. Burroughs is in a bit easier position with a loss, but I don't think they'll have to sweat it out at all. The Burros will win and give Silverado some sleepless nights going into the finale.
Burroughs 27, Silverado 14

Twentynine Palms at Yucca Valley
The premier game in the Morongo Valley has some major implications, as Yucca's upset victory over Desert Hot Springs last week has them in position to get a league title with a win over three-time defending champion Twentynine Palms. A win assures the Wildcats at least a share of the De Anza title and sets up another showdown next week with Big Bear. I think this game will be low-scoring and nasty, with 29 winning again.
Twentynine Palms 19, Yucca Valley 13

Yucaipa at Redlands East Valley
The Thunderbirds have been a nice story in the CBL, taking to new coach Justin Price wonderfully in a 5-3 start that saw a big victory at Miller last week. Pulling off another road win against REV would really put the rest of the league, and the county, on its ear. This isn't the most explosive REV team, but its a solid group that should be able to repel the T-Birds, especially with QB Dylan Malone shaken up a bit.

Carter at Cajon
This isn't a game for the first-place Cowboys to sleep on, as Carter is a couple of plays away from being undefeated as well. Can Carter, which lost to Colton in overtime and San G by two points, get a signature victory? They can, but I don't think they will. Cajon is being Cajon, struggling early but finding its stride in league play. Think the Cowboys have a bit too much.
Cajon 24, Carter 17

Riverside Notre Dame at Rim of the World
With first-place Rubidoux having already dispatched these two teams, this matchup is for second place in the Mountain Valley League. Considering that only two teams per league get guaranteed playoff berths, that makes this game big. It's been a tough year for the Fighting Scots, though the reinsertion of Dillon Pretzinger in the offense has helped considerably. I'll take the home team in a coin-flip game.
Rim of the World 26, Notre Dame 23

Other games of note:
Aquinas 48, Arrowhead Christian 0
Ontario Christian 35, Calvary Murrieta 0
Linfield Christian 30, Western Christian 14
Los Osos 45, Alta Loma 7
Upland 34, Glendora 17
Fontana 20, Eisenhower 10
Big Bear 42, Desert Mirage 6
Victor Valley 15, Granite Hills 13
Serrano 28, Barstow 0
Oak Hills 34, Hesperia 6
Apple Valley 35, Sultana 17
Rubidoux 38, Citrus Valley 7
Banning 45, Jurupa Hills 13
Chino 48, Ontario 10
Colony 30, Montclair 10
Garey 38, Chaffey 19
Arroyo Valley 41, San Bernardino 16
Rialto 40, Pacific 9
Riverside Christian 24, Bloomington Christian 12
Damien 23, Ayala 17
Bloomington 33, Jurupa Valley 13

Last week: 25-7
Overall: 200-73-3

The Fall Signing Period for sports such as basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball and water polo starts next Wednesday and lasts through November 17. A few county athletes have set up their signings already.

Ontario Christian gymnast Kaitlyn Clark will be signing a letter of intent to the University of Alabama at Precision Gymnastics in Rancho Cucamonga at 6 p.m. Alabama is one of the top programs in the nation for women's gymnastics.

Rim of the World has also announced a signing ceremony for Nov. 16 at the school. Signing on that day will be softball player Elizabeth Caporuscio, who will be attending Arizona State. Caporuscio, a star pitcher for the Fighting Scots, verbally committed to play for the Sun Devils during her sophomore year.

All coaches and schools which will be having players sign during the Fall Signing Period should e-mail The Sun at sports@inlandnewspapers.com or tj.berka@inlandnewspapers.com or call (909) 483-9305.

Starting to get into a groove now, as I had my best week of the season to date.

Cajon at Colton
This has become the de facto championship game in the San Andreas League and for good reason, as the teams have split the last five league titles and have won seven total since 2000. Needless to say, they are at it again, as both are undefeated in league. It's been a weird season for both, as Colton has become almost pass-happy while Cajon has shown off the double-wing. I think this one will be relatively low scoring, with the home team prevailing.
Colton 20, Cajon 10

Redlands at Yucaipa
The Terriers have the unenviable task of having to recover from a devastating Smudge Pot rivalry loss to Redlands East Valley last week. The schedulemaker didn't do Redlands any favors, as they'll have to play a sneaky-good Yucaipa team with an elite playmaker in quarterback Dylan Malone. The Terriers might be ripe for an upset, but I think they'll pull this one out late.
Redlands 23, Yucaipa 19

Colony at Chino
How real is Chino? That's the million-dollar question heading into this one. The Cowboys have gone from a feeble 0-10 team to a 6-0 juggernaut that is straight pile-driving opponents. However, Chino's opponents haven't exactly been SEC caliber to date. Colony's five-game winning streak has flown under the radar a bit, but the defending champs have a chance to make a splash. And I think they will.
Colony 28, Chino 23

Etiwanda at Upland
If they had odds on this game in Vegas (or on bodog.com) I would take the over because this thing is going to be a track meet. The Eagles have an explosive offense led by the leading passer in the county in Larry Cutbirth, who averages 275 yards per game through the air. Problem is that Etiwanda doesn't really stop anyone on defense. That will prove fatal against the Highlanders, which has a balanced offense and a little more defense.
Upland 44, Etiwanda 36

Oak Hills at Victor Valley
Kind of a slow week in the High Desert, as all the league games pit the haves against the have-nots, but this nonleague tilt has some teeth. Oak Hills has won a lot in its first year-and-a-half, piling up 13 wins, but still doesn't have that signature win over a large-school program. Victor Valley started out firing at 5-0 but lost to Silverado last week and wants to avoid a second-half slide. I think Victor will stem the slide and Oak Hills will still be searching.
Victor Valley 34, Oak Hills 26

Damien at Chino Hills
This game is usually a doozy and should be again this year, as the Huskies come in needing a win pretty badly after falling in a tough league-opener to Claremont this week. Damien came into this year having to overcome some massive personnel losses due to graduation but has equipped itself well, matching Chino Hills' 4-2 record. No one backs Bub into a corner though, as I feel the Huskies will come out swinging.
Chino Hills 23, Damien 9

Kaiser at Patriot
The question this week isn't whether or not Kaiser - the No. 1 team in the Sun, the Daily Bulletin, the Eastern Division and city of Fontana polls - will be Patriot tomorrow. It will. The question, er questions, are how bad and will there be a fifth shutout. I'm answering very bad on the first one and yes on the second. Patriot didn't muster a point against Summit last week - no way its scoring on Kaiser unless the Cats get bored.
Kaiser 48, Patriot 0

Twentynine Palms at Desert Hot Springs
The Wildcats have ruled the De Anza League the last three years, taking the league title each and every year. But DSH has been on an uber roll this season, taking out Aquinas and Rim of the World in the nonleague and grabbing a big win at Big Bear this past weekend. Twentynine Palms is playing pretty well, but the Golden Eagles seem to have some mojo going. That's good enough for me.
Desert Hot Springs 28, Twentynine Palms 18

Rubidoux at Rim of the World
Last week saw the return of Rim of the World running back Dillon Pretzinger from a foot injury. Not coincidentally, it also saw the Fighting Scots look more like the juggernaut that I expected them to be before the season. The table is set for Rim to win the inaugural Mountain Valley League title and while Rubidoux is much improved, I see Rim rolling here.
Rim of the World 28, Rubidoux 13

Glendora at Los Osos
With all respect to the Dallas-Minnesota game this past Sunday I feel that this game is the true "Desperation Bowl". Both of these teams, which came into the season with high expectations, are 0-1 in a three-playoff-berth league and an 0-2 mark would be a sure death sentence in a brutal Baseline in a division with zero at-large berths. So who gets to play the role of a despondent Tony Romo? Unless it goes into overtime, I think Glendora will.
Los Osos 35, Glendora 27

Other games of note:
Rancho Cucamonga 56, Alta Loma 6
Aquinas 40, Calvary Murrieta 0
Linfield Christian 21, Ontario Christian 17
Western Christian 24, Arrowhead Christian 16
Redlands East Valley 61, Eisenhower 12
Miller 38, Fontana 6
Big Bear 27, Yucca Valley 25
Ridgecrest Burroughs 34, Barstow 0
Silverado 26, Granite Hills 10
Apple Valley 38, Hesperia 14
Serrano 38, Sultana 7
Banning 28, Citrus Valley 23
Riverside Notre Dame 50, Jurupa Hills 6
Garey 31, Don Lugo 12
Ontario 27, Montclair 16
Arroyo Valley 45, Pacific 0
Carter 21, Rialto 18
San Gorgonio 36, San Bernardino 13
Banning Twin Pines 26, Bloomington Christian 20
Summit 39, Bloomington 10

Last week: 26-5
Overall: 154-57-3

I guess I'm a little slow - which Victor Valley fans would agree with after I incorrectly picked against the Jackrabbits in the Bell Game - but I seem to be stuck in a rut of mediocre prognosticating.

Chino Hills at Redlands East Valley
The first step of REV's Bataan Death March-like four-game stretch went well, as the Wildcats subdued Orange Lutheran. It gets a bit harder this week, as the Wildcats play a Chino Hills team that's responded nicely after an upset loss to Corona Santiago. However, I'm not sure the Huskies are quite ready to come to Redlands and leave with a victory. The Wildcat defense will prevail here.
Redlands East Valley 19, Chino Hills 7

Arroyo Valley at Rialto
San Andreas League play gets going this week with several intriguing matchups, but when the season started, I don't think anyone would have identified this one as the most intriguing. But thanks to Arroyo Valley's QB issues and Rialto's surprising 3-0 start, it has been. Michael Yearwood is questionable due to injury and the Knights have some mojo going. Rialto continues its surge.
Rialto 16, Arroyo Valley 10

Rancho Cucamonga at Redlands
The Terriers have proven themselves to be outstanding scrappers, outlasting Los Osos in triple OT and defeating Carlsbad La Costa Canyon without starting QB Jojo Hernandez. Rancho has been on a pretty big roll and seems to thrive on playing away from home (or Los Osos if you want to get technical) and should have enough to put away the Terriers.
Rancho Cucamonga 24, Redlands 16

Kaiser at Palm Desert
The cliche' "the irresistible force against the immovable object" may be annoying, but it is completely appropriate here. The Kaiser defense has been completely dominant, allowing a garbage-time TD to Barstow in its opener and that's it. Meanwhile, Palm Desert's defense has put 113 points up the last two weeks. In these cases, I almost always go defense, so that's what I'll do here.
Kaiser 28, Palm Desert 18

Carter at Colton
One team is undefeated going into this game and surprisingly, it isn't Colton. Carter has been stout on the defensive end, giving up only 28 points in its first three games. But then again, Bloomington was cruising last week before getting backhanded 42-6 by the Yellowjackets. I expect the Lions to go through the same thing, though not nearly as savagely. Colton is awake and aware.
Colton 36, Carter 13

Silverado at Summit
The bye week couldn't have come at a more opportune time for the SkyHawks, who got an extra week to rest up Devon Blackmon's ankle and separate RB Montigo Alford further from a Week 0 concussion. I expect both players to play and be effective against Silverado, which will fight valiantly but doesn't quite have the big guns to pull the upset.
Summit 27, Silverado 17

Chaffey at Chino
This game looked like a dud before the season, but Chino's resurgence has made it pretty interesting. This will be the Cowboys' first Mt. Baldy League game since moving over and they'll try to exploit a struggling Chaffey squad with explosive senior Promise Amadi. I promise that it will be successful, as Chino moves to 4-0.
Chino 28, Chaffey 20

Big Bear at Rim of the World
This should be a fun one. For years I've wondered why this matchup didn't happen, so now that it's here, I expect it to be pretty fun. The Bears have been gashing people with their triple-option offense behind a stout offensive line, while Rim of the World has scuffled due to an injury bug that has taken out RB Dillon Pretzinger. However, I'm going with the home team to show a little something in this one.
Rim of the World 24, Big Bear 22

Miller at Oak Hills
Miller's nonleague gauntlet comes to a merciful end, as they play an Oak Hills team that, while good, isn't in the league of an Upland or a Carson at this point. The Bulldogs will be hungry in this game though, as they failed their first test of the season against a big school from down the hill, falling to Rialto. This should be a good one, but I think Miller is due to pull one of these close ones out.
Miller 27, Oak Hills 21

Riverside Notre Dame at Aquinas
The Holy War is always one of the more spirited rivalries in the area, as the IE's top two parochial schools face off. The Falcons have been impressive, especially defensively, since losing their season opener to Desert Hot Springs. I expect this to be a physical, ground-oriented, low-scoring game and am going with the home team.
Aquinas 19, Notre Dame 16

Other games of note:
Cajon 25, San Gorgonio 14
San Bernardino 35, Pacific 18
Colony 33, Don Lugo 13
Garey 26, Montclair 14
Granite Hills 24, Alta Loma 7
Yucaipa 38, Beaumont 20
Bloomington 28, Fontana 14
Ontario Christian 24, Cerritos Valley Christian 20
Temecula Great Oak 37, Eisenhower 6
Arrowhead Christian 30, Irvine Crean Lutheran South 12
Jurupa Valley 26, Hesperia 20
Claremont 42, Ontario 13
Serrano 28, Santa Clarita Golden Valley 13
Ayala 31, Santa Fe Springs St. Paul 24
Victor Valley 36, Sultana 10
Palm Springs 35, Twentynine Palms 9
Upland 23, Los Angeles Loyola 17
Rubidoux 21, Western Christian 17
Apple Valley 34, Indio 14
Santa Ana Calvary Chapel 30, Bloomington Christian 14

Last week: 26-10
Overall: 86-38-3

The Redlands East Valley volleyball team finished sixth place overall in the championship bracket of the Durango Tournament this past weekend in Las Vegas. The Wildcats went 3-4 during the two-day tourney, losing to Mira Costa in the quarterfinals in three games before defeating Los Alamitos in consolation play and falling to Louisville (Ky.) Assumption in the fifth-place game. The Wildcats went 1-2 in their pool, defeating Thousand Oaks while losing to Covina Northview and Long Beach Poly, and defeated Lakewood in the knockout round to reach the championship bracket.

Rim of the World also competed in the tournament, reaching the championship game of the contender's bracket before losing to Clovis Buchanan in the championship game. The Fighting Scots went 2-1 in pool play and lost their knockout game to Port Coquitlam (B.C.) Riverside before defeating Durango and Vancouver (B.C.) Sequam in the contender bracket.

A new wrinkle we added this year, the preseason all-area team wasn't very easy to put together. But I'm sure these guys will make me look somewhat smart.

OFFENSE
QB - Thomas Carter, Sr., Cajon
RB - Dillon Pretzinger, Sr., Rim of the World
RB - Jeremiah Armstead, Sr., Oak Hills
RB - Tyler Ervin, Sr., Colton
WR - Paul Pitts, Sr., Los Osos
WR - Angel Rivera, Sr., Arroyo Valley
TE - Rodney Hardrick, Sr., Colton
OL - Jamal Prater, Sr., Etiwanda
OL - Jordan Smith, Sr., Redlands
OL - Hector Sotelo, Sr., Serrano
OL - Gary Dixon, Sr., Summit
OL - Jesus Cortez, Sr., Chaffey
Util - Devon Blackmon, Sr., Summit
K - Cody Madsen, Sr., Redlands East Valley

DEFENSE
DL - Ethan Hillyer, Sr., Serrano
DL - John Siliga, Sr., Redlands
DL - Devon Lewis, Sr., Redlands East Valley
DL - Kyle Jerkins, Sr., Apple Valley
LB - Devan Hussey, Sr., Colton
LB - Dennis Taylor, Sr., Kaiser
LB - Jamal Wilson, Sr., Miller
LB - Jimmy Musgrave, Sr., Silverado
DB - Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, Sr., Chino Hills
DB - Josh Armstrong, Sr., Redlands East Valley
DB - Desman Carter, Sr., Kaiser
DB - Demontae Kazee, Jr., Cajon
Util - Sateki Finau, Sr., Rancho Cucamonga
P - Jake Van Ginkel, Sr., Upland

Here is my attempt in the wonderfully inexact science of making a preseason poll. We'll see how it ends up.

1. UPLAND (12-2 last year)
The defending Central Division champions are at the top until they prove otherwise, as the Highlanders return QB Justin Nunes and a array of RBs from last season. Upland loses eight starters on their smothering defense, but Alta Loma transfer Christian Powell should help overcome that.

2. REDLANDS EAST VALLEY (11-1)
The Wildcats lose some headliners from last year's Citrus Belt League championship squad, but REV tends to reload in high numbers. All-CIF CB Josh Armstrong and DT Devon Lewis lead a stingy defense while the Wildcats have the size on the offensive line to help break in the new skill-position players.

3. CHINO HILLS (10-3)
The Huskies return 15 starters, led by all-everything senior DB/WR/RB Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, from their Central Division semifinalist team of a year ago. The only real question will be at QB, where Chino Hills will have to replace the steady Ryan Verdugo, but there's plenty of talent around to help out the new guy.

4. COLTON (10-2)
A banner season for the Yellowjackets was disrupted early by Rancho Cucamonga in the Central quarterfinals last year. The Yellowjackets have plenty of talent, led by LBs Rodney Hardrick and Devan Hussey, to help new coach Rick Bray succeed at his new job. Colton is a prime contender for the Central crown.

5. SERRANO (11-3)
The Diamondbacks lose DE Everett Beed and RB Dionza Bradford from last year's Eastern Division runner-up, but return loads of experience from last year, including four of their five starters on the offensive line. How well Bradford's replacements fill his shoes will be key.

6. REDLANDS (9-3)
The Terriers are hungry to get back atop the Citrus Belt League and this club gives them a chance to do that. They return QB Jojo Hernandez and a bevy of wide receivers on offense and have studs on each line in OL Jordan Smith and DT John Siliga, which could be enough to get them past REV.

7. KAISER (9-4)
Like Serrano, the Cats lose their two Division I studs in LB Josh Shirley and RB/DB Anthony Brown but return almost everyone else from their run to the Eastern semifinals. Kaiser has athletes everywhere on defense, with safety Desman Carter and linebacker Dennis Taylor leading the way.

8. CAJON (7-4)
The last time the Cowboys were this loaded, they won the San Andreas League in 2008 and advanced to the Central Division semifinals. Senior QB Thomas Carter, a third-year starter, will be key if the Cowboys hope to repeat the 2008 performance, as will cornerback Demontae Kazee.

9. RANCHO CUCAMONGA (10-3)
A lot of the key cogs that have contributed to the Cougars' 23-3-1 record over the last two seasons have departed, namely TE Randall Telfer and QB Greg Watson. But Rancho Cucamonga seems to reload with talent, with do-everything senior Sateki Finau providing a key leadership role.

10. SUMMIT (6-6)
The SkyHawks showed a glimpse of their potential in the first round of the playoffs last year, shocking No. 1 seeded Citrus Hill. Summit would like to see that output on a more consistent basis and if they can get elite dual-threat quarterback Devon Blackmon loose, they will.

Just missed the cut: Arroyo Valley (7-4), Rim of the World (10-2), Chaffey (7-5).

Rim of the World equipped itself nicely in the Mojave River League, making the playoffs seven of the last eight seasons and winning a league title in 2006. Despite that success, Fighting Scots coach Bob Gradillas wasn't upset about the school leaving the MRL for the Mountain Valley League.

"To be honest, we are too small of a school for that league," said Gradillas of the MRL. "Especially with the way our enrollment has slipped, we needed to go to a league with schools that were more our size. I enjoyed the MRL and enjoyed the schools and coaches we competed against, but I think this is the best move for us."

Whether the rest of the Mountain Valley League agrees with Gradillas is up for debate. The Scots thrived in the MRL and the Eastern Division last year, taking second in the league and advancing to the quarterfinals with a 10-2 record. In a lower division with a talented team that is led by star running back Dillon Pretzinger, aspirations of Rim's first CIF title since 1976 seem perfectly reasonable.

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

Or at least, it seems that way.
Five different leagues (De Anza, Desert Sky, Mojave River, Mt. Baldy and Sunkist) with San Bernardino County schools will be sending wrestlers to Oxnard Pacifica High for the CIF-SS Northern Division individual championships on Friday and Saturday.

Four of those leagues: Desert Sky, Mojave River, Mt. Baldy and Sunkist all have wrestlers who are seeded among the top five in their weight class. The top five in each weight class advance to the CIF-SS Masters Meet next week.

Of the 70 wrestlers in the division seeded in the top five, 37 are from San Bernardino County.
Montclair leads county schools with top five seeds, (seven), followed by Bloomington and Colony (five), Sultana (four), Barstow, Victor Valley and Hesperia (three), Kaiser (two), Ontario (two), and one each for Granite Hills, Apple Valley and Rim of the World.

Six of the 14 top-seeded wrestlers in the division are also from the county: Barstow's Sean Silva (112), Hesperia's Ivan Pinto (125), Bloomington's Phillip Hendrix (130), Montclair's Joseph Martinez (135), Hesperia's Chris Sloat (160) and Sultana's Manuel Mazariegos (heavyweight).

This division messed me up quite a bit last week. Then again, with the No. 1 and No. 3 seeds being upset, I wasn't the only one who screwed up in their predictions. Hopefully I'll do a bit better this time around.

Palm Springs at Summit
Thanksgiving came six days early for Summit, as they shocked No. 1 seeded Perris Citrus Hill 48-36 last Friday, breaking Citrus Hill's 38-game winning streak in the process. I guess Summit could be ripe for a letdown, but Palm Springs whipped Summit in the first round a year ago, so the SkyHawks are looking for revenge. I'm tempted to pick them again, but I think I like Palm Springs to carry this.
Palm Springs 26, Summit 19

Kaiser at Rim of the World
This is the game I'll be at tomorrow, as the Cats and Fighting Scots get together for the third time in four years. Both teams feature dominating running games, with Kaiser depending on Anthony Brown - who is committed to USC - while Rim rides junior RB Dillon Pretzinger. Kaiser won close battles the last two times they've played and will likely do the same in this one.
Kaiser 20, Rim of the World 14

Riverside Norte Vista at Apple Valley
I saw the Sun Devils pull a 48-27 surprise over No. 3 Silverado last week, which marked Apple Valley's first first-round playoff victory in over 25 years. Norte Vista doesn't have a long history of success either, so one of these teams will be in the Cinderella role come next week. Having seen both teams at different times this season, I feel that Apple is a bit more balanced and will prevail.
Apple Valley 31, Norte Vista 23

La Quinta at Serrano
The Eastern Division opened up a ton for the No. 2-seeded Diamondbacks last week with Citrus Hill and Silverado going down hard. La Quinta is always a tough out this time of year, but I picked Serrano to win this division for a reason - they are darn good. I see the Diamondbacks being a bit too physical for the Blackhawks.
Serrano 24, La Quinta 13

Now to the Eastern Division, which sees Citrus Hill as the bully that's won 38 games in a row. They have to be due right? Guess we'll see.

Summit at No. 1 Perris Citrus Hill
The SkyHawks ramped up their nonleague schedule so they'd be prepared for playoff action after being disposed of rather easily by Palm Springs in the first round last year. However, it's hard to believe that their schedule has properly prepared them for the juggernaut which is Citrus Hill. Deontae Cooper will get his and Summit will have it take it.
Citrus Hill 45, Summit 17

Barstow at Palm Springs
The Aztecs pulled off the upset of the then-No. 3 seeded Cardinals on the way to the CIF title game last year and Palm Springs will be looking for revenge. But looking for it and getting it are completely different things. Barstow's offense is one of the hardest in the area to prepare for and even harder to stop in practice. Going with the Aztecs to force a rematch of last year's title game.
Barstow 28, Palm Springs 17

Palm Desert at Kaiser
I've actually gotten a chance to see Palm Desert in action and they can score at a pretty high clip. However, they were overpowered by Silverado when I saw them and seem like a finesse squad. Finesse squads do about as well with Kaiser as I do wooing supermodels. Look for the Cats to punch Palm Desert in the mouth quite a few times.
Kaiser 26, Palm Desert 13

San Jacinto at No. 4 Rim of the World
A dangerous game for the Fighting Scots, as San Jacinto always has talent and athleticism and is capable of putting up some big point totals. Whether they are capable of stopping the Rim rushing attack, namely junior RB Dillon Pretzinger, is the million-dollar question. Only one has so far and I don't think No. 2 will come this week.
Rim of the World 28, San Jacinto 22

Apple Valley at No. 3 Silverado
This is where I'll be tomorrow night, as the Sun Devils will try to ride RB Daryon Mosley and play keep away from the Silverado offense. That hasn't been the best strategy, as the Silverado D has steadily improved throughout the Hawks' 8-game winning streak. I think the Hawks have a few too many weapons.
Silverado 31, Apple Valley 18

Riverside Norte Vista 30, Riverside Notre Dame 20
La Quinta 27, Ridgecrest Burroughs 16

Menifee Heritage at No. 2 Serrano
The Diamondbacks have won seven in a row coming in. The Patriots have lost three in a row and four of five. In Snowline Stadium with the temperature falling and the fans at full-throat, I see no reason why either trend would reverse. Serrano wins in a romp.
Serrano 34, Heritage 10

QUARTERFINALS
Citrus Hill over Barstow
Kaiser over Rim of the World
Silverado over Norte Vista
Serrano over La Quinta

SEMIFINALS
Citrus Hill over Kaiser
Serrano over Silverado

CHAMPIONSHIP
Serrano over Citrus Hill

Before I release the rankings, I have to admit that I had no idea how to rank the four Baseline League teams. They have alternately beaten and lost to each other and the two that were unranked last week turned out to be the co-champions of the league after last week's results.

I couldn't not rank them, nor could I not rank Rancho Cucamonga and Upland. So after hemming and hawing, I decided to rank them in the 5-8 spots in the order that they finished in league play. So my apologies to Kaiser and Rim of the World for dropping out of the polls through no fault of their own. Guess I have to make this a top 12 next year.

1. Redlands East Valley (10-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: def. No. 10 Redlands, 37-7. Up next: Friday vs. Riverside La Sierra (6-4)

2. Colton (9-1)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. Pacific, 79-0. Up next: Friday vs. Don Lugo (5-5)

3. Colony (9-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. Montclair, 39-13. Up next: Friday vs. Menifee Paloma Valley (6-4).

4. Serrano (8-2)
Previous ranking: 6. Last week: def. Sultana, 50-12. Up next: Friday vs. Menifee Heritage (5-5)

5. Los Osos (6-4)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Alta Loma, 56-10. Up next: Friday vs. Arroyo Valley (7-3).

6. Etiwanda (7-3)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. No. 7 Rancho Cucamonga, 27-24 (OT). Up next: Friday vs. Cajon (7-3).

7. Rancho Cucamonga (8-2)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: lost to No. 6 Etiwanda, 27-24 (OT). Up next: Friday at Glendora (7-3).

8. Upland (8-2)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Claremont, 30-20. Up next: Friday at Damien (5-5).

9. Silverado (8-2)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: idle. Up next: Friday vs. Apple Valley (5-5).

10. Redlands (8-2)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: lost to No. 1 Redlands East Valley, 37-7. Up next: Friday vs. Moreno Valley Valley View (5-5).

Just missed the cut: Kaiser (7-3), Rim of the World (9-1), Chino Hills (8-2), Cajon (7-3).

Dropped out: No. 8 Kaiser (7-3), No. 10 Rim of the World (9-1)

Next up is the Eastern Division, which saw very little surprise in the awarding the top 3 seeds to Perris Citrus Hill, Serrano and Silverado, respectively. It got a little nutty after that though.

The matchups:

Summit (5-5) at No. 1 Perris Citrus Hill (10-0)
Barstow (7-3) at Palm Springs (7-2)
Palm Desert (7-3) at Kaiser (7-3)
San Jacinto (7-3) at No. 4 Rim of the World (9-1)
Apple Valley (5-5) at No. 3 Silverado (8-2)
Riverside Notre Dame (8-2) at Riverside Norte Vista (9-1)
Ridgecrest Burroughs (5-5) at La Quinta (7-3)
Menifee Heritage (5-5) at No. 2 Serrano (8-2)

My initial impression is surprised that Rim of the World got the final seed. While the Fighting Scots have an impressive record, their nonleague record wasn't as ambitious as teams like Kaiser or La Quinta, who were seeded below the Scots. Rim's seeding had a chain effect, putting La Quinta in the same quarterfinal bracket as No. 2 seed Serrano. Serrano coach Ray Maholchic wasn't too happy about the prospect of seeing the Desert Valley League champions that early. As for Kaiser, it will have a chance to prove it's case against Rim in the second round, provided it can get by a tough Palm Desert team in round one.

I also think that the top half of the bracket is loaded. You have the defending CIF champions in Citrus Hill, you have the CIF runner-ups in Barstow, which would have two rematch games if it beats Palm Springs in round one. You have Kaiser, Rim, Palm Desert - all teams capable of making long runs. Meanwhile, the bottom half of the bracket seems more negotiable. I like Silverado's draw a lot, as they should be able to take Apple Valley and will have a talent advantage over the Norte Vista-Notre Dame winner.

As far as a sleeper, I like Kaiser. In watching Citrus Hill's semifinal and championship wins last year, the Hawks had issues with Serrano and Barstow coming right at them physically. While it's possible that Citrus Hill has become more hard-nosed, there isn't a team in this draw that's as good at mixing it up as much as Kaiser is. I see Kaiser being able to overpower its first-round and quarterfinal opponents and having a puncher's chance against Citrus Hill.

This is one of the more simple breakdowns I have. Which is probably why I'm doing it at 4 in the morning.

1) Serrano (7-2, 3-0): Has clinched the No. 1 seed in the Mojave River League. Even a loss to Sultana Friday wouldn't change that, as the Diamondbacks own the head-to-head tiebreaker with Rim of the World.

2) Rim of the World (9-1, 3-1): Has clinched the No. 2 seed in the Mojave River League.

3) Apple Valley (4-5, 1-2): Earns a playoff berth and the No. 3 seed out of the MRL with a win over Hesperia Friday. Eliminated from consideration with a loss.

4) Hesperia (3-6, 1-2): Earns a playoff berth and the No. 3 seed out of the MRL with a win over Apple Valley Friday. Eliminated from consideration with a loss.

5) Sultana (0-9, 0-3): Eliminated from playoff consideration.

Lots of shuffling after five. To be honest, how to rank teams 9-13 confused the heck out of me.

Sun Top 10

1. Redlands East Valley (9-0)
Previous ranking: 1. Last week: def. Miller, 28-20. Up next: Friday at No. 5 Redlands (8-1)

2. Colton (8-1)
Previous ranking: 2. Last week: def. San Gorgonio, 42-19. Up next: Friday at Pacific (1-8).

3. Rancho Cucamonga (8-1)
Previous ranking: 3. Last week: def. No. 9 Upland 34-31. Up next: Thursday vs. Etiwanda (6-3).

4. Colony (8-1)
Previous ranking: 4. Last week: def. Don Lugo, 42-10. Up next: Thursday at Montclair (3-6).

5. Redlands (8-1)
Previous ranking: 5. Last week: def. Rialto, 31-14. Up next: Friday vs. No. 1 Redlands East Valley (9-0).

6. Serrano (7-2)
Previous ranking: 8. Last week: def. Ridgecrest Burroughs, 29-12. Up next: Friday vs. Sultana (0-9).

7. Silverado (8-2)
Previous ranking: 9. Last week: def. Granite Hills, 25-14. Up next: Eastern Division playoffs, TBA.

8. Kaiser (6-3)
Previous ranking: 10. Last week: def. Bloomington, 41-0. Up next: Friday at Jurupa Valley (0-9).

9. Upland (7-2)
Previous ranking: 7. Last week: lost to No. 3 Rancho Cucamonga, 34-31. Up next: Friday at Claremont (5-4).

10. Rim of the World (9-1)
Previous ranking: NR. Last week: def. Hesperia, 34-0. Up next: Eastern Division playoffs, TBA.

Just missed the cut: Los Osos (5-4), Chino Hills (7-2), Etiwanda (6-3), Arroyo Valley (7-2).

Dropped out: No. 6 Etiwanda (6-3).

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

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

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).

Shaved another loss off the old total this past week, putting me down to three. Either I'm starting to get a handle on this season, or some of the teams are deciding to humor me. Guess we'll find out with most of the leagues starting this weekend.

Serrano at Rim of the World
I'll spend my second straight weekend taking Waterman Street up the mountains, as the D-backs and Fighting Scots face off in what should be a doozy. Both teams have great running backs in Serrano senior Dionza Bradford and Rim junior Dillon Pretzinger, but the game might come down to which quarterback can perform well enough to take pressure off the running back. I'm going with an experienced Serrano team in a minor upset.
Serrano 20, Rim of the World 14

Arroyo Valley at Colton
Both of these teams come in with identical 4-1 records, but its safe to say that Colton's 4-1 mark - complete with victories over Kaiser, Palm Springs, La Quinta and Apple Valley - is a little more impressive than Arroyo Valley's conquests over the Alta Lomas and Rialtos of the world. I see the Yellowjackets being a little too much to handle.
Colton 33, Arroyo Valley 16

Los Osos at Upland
This is always one of the more hotly contested games in the county but for the first time since 2005, its not a Brehaut vs. Nunes affair. Los Osos is still passing the ball quite well behind senior quarterback Blake Loncar, but has fallen short in some close games. Upland's played some stifling defense, something I expect will continue in this one.
Upland 21, Los Osos 13

Miller at Yucaipa
If any one is going to challenge the Redlands teams for Citrus Belt League supremacy, its one of these schools. Miller has started league with two routs of CBL underlings while Yucaipa hung with REV for a half before falling 35-7 last week. Both teams can score from anywhere on the field, so this game should be entertaining if nothing else.
Yucaipa 28, Miller 27

Silverado at Victor Valley
The battle for Victorville has been a one-sided affair of late, but this game sees the Jackrabbits coming in 5-0 and ranked No. 8 in the Eastern Division. Silverado is Silverado, winning four in a row after starting its season 0-2. The Hawks also have some big wins, taking out Summit, Palm Desert and Arroyo Valley, and I expect that to help them take this one as well.
Silverado 31, Victor Valley 24

Chino Hills at Damien
If you are Damien, you have to hate life right about now. After playing teams like Rancho Cucamonga, Charter Oak, Bishop Amat and St. John Bosco in the nonleague season, they start league with a very good Chino Hills squad. Perhaps Damien's brutal nonleague death march will help them, but I think the Huskies have a little too much mojo right now.
Chino Hills 24, Damien 17

Riverside Patriot at Kaiser
These teams battled in the season finale last year for the Sunkist League title, a game that Kaiser won going away. I expect much of the same this time around. Kaiser is the best 2-3 team in the county - heck, maybe in Southern California - and Patriot just got slapped down by Victor Valley. Expect the Cats to get in a few shots.
Kaiser 30, Patriot 10

Don Lugo at Chaffey
The Conquistadores, with DL George Uko and DB Steven Bethley, have the star power and three straight wins. But Chaffey had an ambitious nonleague schedule and employs a physical attack that belies its 2-3 record. I think you'll see the defending league champion Tigers triple-team Uko and just pummel the rest of the Don Lugo defenders.
Chaffey 26, Don Lugo 16

Yucca Valley at Big Bear
No one really expected these teams to come in with a combined 1-9 record, as both went to the East Valley quarterfinals a year ago. But as the De Anza League season opens, that's exactly where the Trojans and Bears lie, with a Big Bear victory over Oak Hills two weeks ago being the only non-loss. So it should be intense, though I'll go with the home team to make it two in a row.
Big Bear 23, Yucca Valley 14

Granite Hills at Apple Valley
Another crosstown rivalry in the High Desert that should be infinitely more entertaining than it usually is. Apple Valley has been outstanding offensively over the last two weeks, putting up 67 on San Bernardino and 56 on San Gorgonio, while the Cougars are off to a program-best 4-1 start. Granite is improved and will give the Sun Devils a game, but this will go the way it normally does.
Apple Valley 34, Granite Hills 23

Others games of note:
Etiwanda 40, Alta Loma 13
Rancho Cucamonga 38, Claremont 14
Arrowhead Christian 28, Western Christian 17
Carter 38, Rialto 15
Redlands East Valley 48, Fontana 10
Redlands 46, Eisenhower 12
Twentynine Palms 27, Desert Hot Springs 10
Barstow 33, Ridgecrest Burroughs 27
Hesperia 42, Sultana 13
Garey 28, Montclair 20
Colony 41, Ontario 7
San Gorgonio 55, Pacific 0
Cajon 49, San Bernardino 10
Ayala 44, Chino 6
Summit 34, Bloomington 16
Newport Beach Sage Hill 58, Citrus Valley 6
Aquinas 28, Oak Hills 20

Week: 21-3
Overall: 130-42

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).

Much better this week, as I only missed four games. Maybe there's hope for me yet. Who knows.

Redlands East Valley at Yucaipa
Ike actually hung with REV for a half, going into intermission down 21-20. REV did end up winning 69-26, but maybe that performance gives an explosive Yucaipa team some hope. Then again, Yucaipa had to scratch and claw to beat Rialto, so maybe not. Yucaipa will score a bit, but REV will score a lot.
Redlands East Valley 48, Yucaipa 21

Fontana at Redlands
The Steelers were given a bit of a reality check last week, as Miller exposed a lack of Fohi team speed in its 41-16 win. Redlands doesn't have many sprinters playing football, so that should work in Fohi's advantage a bit. But not enough, as the Terriers have steadily improved with each passing game.
Redlands 28, Fontana 6

Colton at Kaiser
You'll need a hard hat to watch this game, as both of these teams will come at you and pop you in the mouth. This is Colton's first road game of the year and Kaiser is looking for its first home win, as the Cats are 0-2 at home and 2-0 on the road. I have been pretty wrong on Kaiser games the last two weeks, so take this prediction with a grain of salt.
Colton 21, Kaiser 16

Silverado at Arroyo Valley
This should be a fun game with two of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the area, as Jemeryn Jenkins leads Silverado against a 4-0 Arroyo Valley team led by junior Michael Yearwood. I was going to call Arroyo Valley the Hawks, but Silverado is the Hawks too. I'll go with the home Hawks in what should be a dandy.
Arroyo Valley 30, Silverado 27

Granite Hills at Rim of the World
This matchup of unbeatens provides by far the stiffest test for the Cougars, who have only given up 12 points this season, as Rim - ranked No. 3 in the Eastern Division - has the county's leading rusher and scorer in junior RB Dillon Pretzinger. The Scots also have two straight shutouts. The defense won't get a third, but it'll do enough.
Rim of the World 31, Granite Hills 16

Rancho Cucamonga at Temecula Valley
The Cougars got a week off to get refreshed for their matchup against the Bears, who lost a scorefest with Etiwanda a couple weeks ago. The Rancho passing offense, led by QB Greg Watson and TE Randal Telfer, should go off for some big yards.
Rancho Cucamonga 42, Temecula Valley 23

Etiwanda at Covina Charter Oak
Charter Oak has probably had its fill of Inland Valley teams at this point, losing to Rancho Cucamonga two weeks ago and struggling with Damien last week. Now in comes Etiwanda's explosive offense with QB Angel Santiago and WR Bobby Ratliff. The Eagles will test Charter Oak, but I'll take the Chargers at the end
Charter Oak 36, Etiwanda 31

Aquinas at Twentynine Palms
The Falcons will be foaming at the mouth to play Twentynine Palms, as the Wildcats were the source of both Aquinas losses a year ago, including a 40-0 loss in the East Valley semifinals. Twentynine Palms has struggled a bit with a tough nonleague schedule, but got a win last week. I expect this game to be close, with Aquinas getting a modicum of revenge.
Aquinas 24, Twentynine Palms 19

San Gorgonio at Apple Valley
Interesting game here. The Spartans have lost three in a row, but their last trip to the High Desert was their one win - a 21-6 victory over Hesperia. Apple Valley is coming off its best performance of the season, throwing up 67 points to San Bernardino. This game is basically a coin flip to me, so I'll go with the home team.
Apple Valley 27, San Gorgonio 25

Riverside Patriot at Victor Valley
One of the best stories in the High Desert this season has been the resurgence of the Jackrabbits, who have won The Bell and ascended to a No. 8 ranking in the Eastern Division thanks to a 4-0 record. However, Patriot may be their toughest test to date. I expect the Jackrabbits to pull this one out late.
Victor Valley 24, Patriot 22

Other games of interest:
Carter 45, Eisenhower 32
Miller 38, Rialto 14
Summit 38, Sultana 9
Barstow 51, San Bernardino 22
Menifee Paloma Valley 24, Bloomington 17
Claremont 43, Chino 14
Citrus Valley 17, Lucerne Valley 16
Los Osos 23, Valencia West Ranch 20
Riverside Norte Vista 37, Montclair 17
Oak Hills 23, Pacific 17
Arrowhead Christian 24, Palm Desert Xavier Prep 13
Ridgecrest Burroughs 27, Hesperia 23
St. Margaret's 48, Western Christian 15
Cerritos Valley Christian 30, Ontario Christian 26

This week: 23-4
Overall: 109-39

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).

Better last week, as I only messed up six games. Of course four of those were in my featured 10, so I'm really not sure if I've really gotten smarter. This week starts Citrus Belt League play, so it's starting to get really good. Here are my picks before I head to Fontana High School for tonight's Fohi-Miller tilt.

Miller at Fontana
Before the season, this looked to be a speedbump for the defending CBL champion Rebels, as Fontana had only won five games the previous five seasons while Miller was returning much of their offense. But two Steeler wins and an 0-3 Miller start has made this game pretty key. While Miller had a brutal schedule and Fohi beat SAL cellardwellars Pacific and San Bernardino, its clear that Fohi is improved and Miller isn't. However, I'll pick Miller to survive, albeit barely.
Miller 28, Fontana 20

Carter at Redlands
Another intriguing CBL opener, because for whatever reason, the Lions play well against Redlands. The Terriers barely escaped at Carter 7-6 during their CBL championship season in 2006, lost to Carter at home in 2007 and struggled to beat the Lions last year. The Carter offense has shown explosive qualities, but Redlands has been stingy on defense. I'll take the savvy of Redlands in this one.
Redlands 21, Carter 12

Colony at Kaiser
These teams have both been battle-tested and quality approved, with Colony beating Chino Hills and Diamond Ranch already while Kaiser destroyed Cajon last week. Both teams are feeling confident and have talent to burn. However, Kaiser gave one of the better defensive performances I've seen in my three years here, especially given the quality of Cajon. I expect them to be slightly superior to the Titans.
Kaiser 19, Colony 16

Summit at Silverado
Silverado entertained the heck out of me last Thursday, breaking five touchdowns of 50 yards or more against Palm Desert. After a slow start, it seems as if the Hawks offense is running in full gear. Summit has that capability and while only 1-2, showed well in close losses to Etiwanda and Redlands. Expect some big plays and some crazy athleticism in the High Desert, with the home team prevailing in a classic.
Silverado 35, Summit 30

Hesperia at Barstow
Very interesting litmus test for both of these schools. The Scorpion offense finally broke out against Pacific, but playing the listless Pirates doesn't really compare to facing defending Eastern Division runner-up Barstow. The Aztecs also have something to prove after falling last week to Quartz Hill in upset fashion. Hesperia is improved, but I'll go with a veteran Barstow team at home.
Barstow 30, Hesperia 21

Chaffey at Colton
If there are 10 passes combined between the two teams, I'll be shocked. Chaffey likes to pound the ball with senior RB Ronald Douglas, the county's leading rusher, while Colton has a fleet of backs to excel in the double-wing. The Yellowjackets defense seems to have settled in after a tough opener against Vista Murrieta and will subdue Chaffey enough to pull out the win.
Colton 24, Chaffey 12

Upland at Bloomington
The positive vibes the Bruins got by winning their first two games were mostly eradicated in their 51-0 loss to Corona Roosevelt. It doesn't get much easier for Bloomington, as Upland and its lockdown defense come into town. Tim Salter gets a ton of credit in my mind for reshaping the Highlanders from a big-play, somewhat finesse squad into a hard-nosed physical unit. Bloomington will be heaping praise on Upland as well.
Upland 28, Bloomington 6

San Gorgonio at Chino Hills
After impressively winning at Hesperia in its opener, the Spartans have had a tough time of it in losing to Redlands East Valley and Yucaipa. Now they are going against a team that smacked them twice last year, including 52-13 in the playoffs. Chino Hills bounced back last week with a nice win over Diamond Ranch after losing to Colony the week before and will continue to roll.
Chino Hills 34, San Gorgonio 14

La Quinta at Cajon
La Quinta hasn't had a fun time in the Inland Empire the past two weeks, losing lopsided games to Colton and Norco. They come back again to face a Cajon team who's pride is a bit wounded after being shut out by Kaiser. It will be interesting to see how the Cowboys react to being punched in the mouth and how La Quinta will react to the travel. I'll go with Cajon in a close one.
Cajon 18, La Quinta 14

Indio at Rim of the World
This has all the makings of a beatdown. Indio has struggled after losing the bulk of its 6-4 team a year ago and faces a Rim of the World team that's a bit sore about losing to the Rajahs on the road a year ago. Expect the Fighting Scots to run on Indio early and often, keeping its undefeated start going.
Rim of the World 38, Indio 7

Other games of interest:
Redlands East Valley 55, Eisenhower 0
Yucaipa 48, Rialto 14
Apple Valley 31, San Bernardino 26
Arroyo Valley 34, Alta Loma 10
Ayala 47, South El Monte 3
Granite Hills 30, Cathedral City 17
Etiwanda 45, Chino 6
Pacific 28, Citrus Valley 10
Claremont 38, Ontario 14
Don Lugo 37, Jurupa Valley 9
San Juan Capistrano St. Margaret's 42, Ontario Christian 13
Aquinas 28, San Pedro Mary Star of the Sea 13
Serrano 38, Santa Clarita Golden Valley 3
Oak Park 24, Twentynine Palms 13
Victor Valley 33, Sultana 16
Yucca Valley 21, Arrowhead Christian 17
Big Bear 28, Oak Hills 27

Week: 24-6
Overall: 86-35

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).

If there's anything you can count on with the Rim of the World football team, its a physical, power-running offense that gets the most out of its personnel. It's a formula that won the Mojave River League for the Fighting Scots in 2006 and has gotten them to the playoffs the last two seasons.

But if the Scots are going to continue their playoff streak, they'll have to find some reinforcements up front. With Jacob Ringhoffer - a possible Division I prospect - ending his football career after a knee injury last season, Rim is going to have to depend on sophomores and juniors to lead the way.

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

Rim of the World sophomore shortstop Elizabeth Caporuscio, who helped lead the Fighting Scots to the Mojave River League title this past season, verbally committed to Arizona State according to an e-mail sent by Rim athletic director Josh Hill. Caporuscio was a first-team all-MRL selection for Rim, hitting .510 with three home runs, 26 RBIs and 10 doubles this season.

Got back from the releaguing meeting at Norte Vista High School a couple of hours ago and here are the new leagues. A detailed story of the proceedings can be found in Saturday's paper.

Here are the schools that moved:
Banning - Mountain Pass League to a brand-new league
Carter - Citrus Belt League to San Andreas League
Hemet - Sunbelt League to Mountain Pass League
Hemet West Valley - Sunbelt League to Mountain Pass League
Menifee Heritage - Mountain Pass League to Sunbelt League
Rialto - Citrus Belt League to San Andreas League
Rim of the World - Mojave River League to a brand-new league
Riverside Notre Dame - Mountain Pass League to a brand-new league
Riverside Rubidoux - Mountain Pass League to a brand-new league
Temescal Canyon - Southwestern League to Sunbelt League

Brand-new schools:
Citrus Valley - brand-new league
Jurupa Hills - brand-new league
Mesa Murrieta - Southwestern League
Oak Hills - Mojave River League

And now, the actual leagues:

BIG XII (remains the same)
Corona Centennial
Corona High
Corona Santiago
Eastvale Roosevelt
Norco
Riverside King
Riverside North
Riverside Poly

CITRUS BELT LEAGUE (drops from 8 teams to 6)
Eisenhower
Fontana
Miller
Redlands
Redlands East Valley
Yucaipa

DE ANZA LEAGUE (the same)
Big Bear
Desert Hot Springs
Desert Mirage
Twentynine Palms
Yucca Valley

DESERT SKY LEAGUE (the same)
Barstow
Granite Hills
Ridgecrest Burroughs
Silverado
Victor Valley

INLAND VALLEY LEAGUE (the same)
Moreno Valley Canyon Springs
Moreno Valley High
Moreno Valley Rancho Verde
Moreno Valley Valley View
Moreno Valley Vista del Lago
Riverside Arlington
Riverside La Sierra
Riverside Ramona

MOJAVE RIVER LEAGUE (Oak Hills for Rim)
Apple Valley
Hesperia
Oak Hills
Serrano
Sultana

MOUNTAIN PASS LEAGUE (8 teams to 6)
Beaumont
Hemet High
Hemet Tahquitz
Hemet West Valley
Perris Citrus Hill
San Jacinto

NEW LEAGUE (6 teams)
Banning
Citrus Valley
Jurupa Hills
Rim of the World
Riverside Notre Dame
Riverside Rubidoux

SAN ANDREAS LEAGUE (6 teams to 8)
Arroyo Valley
Cajon
Carter
Colton
Pacific
Rialto
San Bernardino
San Gorgonio

SOUTHWESTERN LEAGUE (Mesa Murrieta for Temescal Canyon)
Mesa Murrieta
Murrieta Valley
Vista Murrieta
Temecula Chaparral
Temecula Great Oak
Temecula Valley

SUNBELT LEAGUE (Temescal Canyon and Heritage for West Valley, Hemet)
Lake Elsinore Lakeside
Menifee Heritage
Menifee Paloma Valley
Perris
Temescal Canyon
Wildomar Elsinore

SUNKIST LEAGUE (same)
Bloomington
Kaiser
Riverside Jurupa Valley
Riverside Norte Vista
Riverside Patriot
Summit

This is another division with huge local representation, as the High Desert schools and Sunkist League go at it here.

Rim of the World at No. 1 Perris Citrus Hill
It's impressive that the Fighting Scots are here, having made a 21-point second-half comeback at Apple Valley to do it. But Citrus Hill, with QB Caleb Herring having committed to UNLV and RB Deontae Cooper receiving D-1 interest as a junior, has way too much firepower. This will be like a 16-1 matchup you'd see in the NCAA men's basketball tournament.
Citrus Hill 48, Rim of the World 6

Riverside Notre Dame at No. 2 Hesperia
Speaking of Division I players, Notre Dame probably wishes it had RB Kenjon Barner, now a freshman at Oregon, back this year. The Titans will have a hard time matching up with Hesperia's physicality up front. And the Scorpions, with RB Gavin Santos and WR Jay Waddell, can beat you up top too.
Hesperia 38, Notre Dame 7

Summit at No. 3 Palm Springs
A lot of people are calling this upset. Ok, well maybe one reader, but still, this is an interesting matchup. The SkyHawks are young, but have a lot of speed, athleticism and moxie, as evidenced by their comebacks against Norte Vista and Bloomington. Palm Springs may be lacking in the speed department, but the Indians have size. Its that size that will make the difference late.
Palm Springs 23, Summit 20

Banning at No. 4 Kaiser
The Dick Bruich watch is going on, as any game could be the last for the legendary coach. But it won't be this game. Kaiser hasn't lost in six straight games and are coming off a dominating 435 rushing-yard performance against Riverside Patriot. Banning, which was 0-10 two years ago, is a great story, but it won't be the team that ends Bruich's career.
Kaiser 36, Banning 7

La Quinta at Serrano
As far as name matchups go, this one might be the most vibrant. Both of these schools are always in the CIF title discussion, but it might be far-fetched to get much of a run out of either school this year. La Quinta, though second in the Desert Valley League, was 0-5 and usually noncompetitive during the nonleague season, while Serrano lost three games as well. But I can't see the D-backs going down at Snowline Stadium.
Serrano 31, La Quinta 17

Barstow at San Jacinto
San Jac was a power in the East Valley Division, playing runner-up the last two years to Big Bear and Citrus Hill, respectively. I'm not sure they've gone up against a running attack as comphrensive as Barstow's double-wing though. It will be a physical matchup, but I think the Desert Sky represents here. Then again, I'm always wrong on Barstow predictions.
Barstow 24, San Jacinto 19

Silverado at Riverside Patriot
One look at the Hawks' 3-7 record could cause one to shudder, but Silverado took on one of the more brutal nonleague schedules in the section. That rugged slate will help Silverado immensely, as Patriot's physical running attack won't seem nearly as intimidating. It's been a long time for Patriot/Rubidoux, and it will be a short time in the postseason.
Silverado 20, Patriot 14

The other game of note between teams that aren't in San Bernardino County:
Palm Desert 34, Ridgecrest Burroughs 23

Quarterfinals
No. 1 Citrus Hill over Palm Desert
Serrano over No. 4 Kaiser
No. 2 Hesperia over Silverado
No. 3 Palm Springs over Barstow

Semifinals
No. 1 Citrus Hill over Serrano
No. 2 Hesperia over No. 3 Palm Springs

Final
No. 1 Citrus Hill over No. 2 Hesperia

The CIF-Southern Section football playoff brackets were released a few hours ago. Definitely some interesting things going on in the pairings. Here are some early observations on the brackets, which can be downloaded from www.cifss.org.

Central Division
- Rancho Cucamonga wasn't done any favors. Although the 9-0-1 Cougars were awarded the No. 1 seed, they got paired up with Colton in the first round. The Yellowjackets may not be as good as they usually are, but that double-wing offense is a headache to defend. Los Osos, on the other hand, got the No. 2 seed and is hosting Elsinore out of the Sunbelt League. If it wins, it'll face the Chino Hills-San Gorgonio winner.

- Chaffey also should be a little perturbed, as the Mt. Baldy League champions get the pleasure of hosting Upland, the third-place team in the Baseline League. It will be tough for the Tigers to match up with that firepower.

- Chino Hills-San G is a rematch of a game played on Oct. 3 at San G, won 42-20 by Chino Hills. Needless to say, tough draw for the Spartans.

- Cajon, the SAL champ, gets wild-card Etiwanda in the first round. The Cowboys were the No. 4 seed but will be tested by an explosive Eagles team. Ayala, the Sierra No. 1 seed, also gets a tough draw by hosting two-time defending division champion Colony.

Eastern Division
- Hesperia has a pretty favorable draw. As expected, the Scorpions got the No. 2 seed in the division behind Citrus Hill and draws Riverside Notre Dame in the first round. It'll get the Silverado at Patriot winner in the quarterfinals if it wins. The other league champion on its side of the bracket - Palm Springs - was 7-3 in a mediocre Desert Valley League.

- Rim of the World has a rough matchup, having to face No. 1 seed Perris Citrus Hill and its star RB Deonte Cooper. Ridgecrest Burroughs wasn't done many favors either, as it hosts Palm Desert - which was ranked near the top of the division rankings all year.

- Kaiser gets Banning in the first round and has a very intriguing second-round matchup if it wins, as it will face the La Quinta at Serrano winner.

East Valley Division
- Aquinas gets the No. 3 seed and hosts Kern Valley in the first round. Should it win, it could have a tasty rematch with Twentynine Palms, which dealt the Falcons their only loss. There's also potential for a Big Bear-Ontario Christian rematch in the second round.

- Arrowhead Christian and Big Bear qualify as at-larges and have tough first round matchups, as the Eagles play at No. 2 seed Brentwood while the Bears head to Santa Paula.

Inland Division
- Miller gets the No. 4 seed and hosts Roosevelt, which is making its first playoff appearance in school history.

- Lots of revenge possibilities. Redlands East Valley is on the same side of the bracket with Redlands, and the Wildcats get a chance to avenge their loss to Corona Santiago in the Inland semifinals a year ago. If Redlands wins at Riverside North and Norco wins at Moreno Valley Rancho Verde, a rematch of their overtime semifinal two years ago would happen.

- Rancho Verde, the No. 2 seed, got a tough first-round matchup with a seasoned Norco squad and isn't done any favors in round two, having to face Redlands or two-time Eastern Division champ North.

- Yucaipa gets the unenviable task of facing Corona Centennial. That could get ugly quick.

No real drama here, as everything is basically decided, especially since there are no at-large berths in the Eastern Division. But whatever, I'll give equal time.

1. Hesperia (9-0, 3-0): The Scorpions have clinched the No. 1 seed out of the league for the MRL playoffs by virtue of their victory over Serrano a couple weeks ago. Hesperia will likely be the No. 2 seed in the bracket behind Perris Citrus Hill if it defeats Apple Valley Friday.

2. Serrano (6-3, 2-1): The Diamondbacks have clinched the No. 2 seed by virtue of their victory over Rim of the World in the league opener. Serrano will likely clinch a first-round home game with a victory over Sultana Friday.

3. Rim of the World (5-4, 2-2): The Fighting Scots have clinched the No. 3 seed by virtue of their win over Apple Valley two weeks ago. They'll be starting the playoffs on the road no matter what.

4. Apple Valley (4-5, 1-2): Eliminated from playoff contention.

5. Sultana (0-9. 0-3): Eliminated from playoff contention.

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