Robledo’s response: That is what Rosemead coach Matt Koffler told Star-News reporter Miguel Melendez after I promptly predicted a 35-14 East victory tomorrow night in the Hall of Fame game. So Koffler, err Coughler called me out, well Koffy should know I make these predictions when you have guys from the East who compete for CIF championships in bigger divisions and win, and because the East had won six straight until last year and is 17-10-2 overall. Besides, is it any secret the football on the East side of town is not only stronger at the top, but has more more parity than its west counterparts? To say the east should be favored is a no-brainer.

Northview coach Jim Arellanes on Rosemead’s Matt Koffler relishing the role of underdog: “I’m sure he is saying that, that’s his deal. He did that when we were at Rosemead (as teammates) and I’m sure he’s going to continue to do that. But I don’t buy it, they have some significant talent on that side. We talked the other day, we didn’t have as sharp a practice as we have been. We’re like ‘Hey guys, we’re not just going through the motions, we want to have fun, but at the same time we want to win.’ Our guys understand that, they want to represent our side of the Valley. I don’t buy into that underdog role at all, they have some players.”

Robledo’s prediction: East wins, 35-14
Melendez’s prediction: West wins, 21-17