What looked like a potential disaster for the Amat Nation turned out to be not so bad. Amat coach Mark Verti confirmed Monday that three players left the school, but only one was a starter. Bryce McBride, as confirmed by Conqs coach Greg Gano, has checked-in at Los Altos. He’s joined at LA by Amat back-up QB Blake Tillis. It could’ve been worse for Amat, considering last week that the hot rumor was that returning leading tackler Marcus Wagner was also headed for Los Altos and up to eight varsity players might be leaving the program.

Aram’s thoughts: As I said when giving a way too early Top 10 for next season, Amat is going to be a very improved team next season. That thought was threatened by this supposed mass exodus, which really didn’t take place. Despite McBride’s exit, the Lancers look to still be in good shape with a good nucleus of returners. Amat’s frosh team was very impressive this season and some of the varsity returners rank among the top players in the area. This week’s events does not mean good times are here again at Amat. Those associated with the program should take heed in the saying “where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Fans are clearly fed up with the mediocrity, and that’s being nice about it. The psyche of players should also be considered. Not winning and missing the playoffs makes Amat a undesirable place for kids/parents to pony up four or five dimes a year just to get so-so results. It does Amat no good for kids to see how much fun/success their peers are having at places like CO, LA or SH. Most Amat fans have an extreme amount of pride, but even the most die hard Lancer has to admit the school is in need of a great football season in a big way. If it doesn’t happen soon …