The Mavericks moved to 6-2 and remained undefeated in league play at 3-0 , overcoming turnovers and containing an explosive Escondido offense en route to huge 21-17 win. Down 10 points at halftime, the Mavericks stormed back behind the feet of Quarterback Sebastian Frausto, who made a big 4th quarter touchdown run to put the Mavericks on top for good. Escondido got the ball back with about 5 minutes remaining in the game. The defense tightened up and held strong, propelling the Mavs to a victory. If the Mavericks can win out in their final two games against San Pasqual and rival , they'll secure a number one seed in the division 1 playoffs.

I'm uploading a bunch of game video highlights now... more content to come including Frausto's interview with the Prep Pigskin Report. For now, take a look at the game picture below...



North County Times Game Article by Terry Monahan

LA COSTA ---- There's a reason the defensive unit at La Costa Canyon High is called The Gang Green Defense.

Because it winds up slowly hurting your chances of winning.

Just ask Escondido.

Averaging 453 total yards a game coming into Friday's Avocado League showdown for first place, Escondido's powerful running game was no match for Gang Green.

And after trailing by 10 points at halftime, the Mavericks' offense came to life enough to score twice in the second half, both on runs by senior quarterback Sebastian Frausto, to claim a 21-17 victory over the Cougars.

Click here for boxscore

The win left the No. 5-ranked Mavs, 6-2 overall, alone in first place with a 3-0 record with two games remaining in the regular season.

"No way we were going to let this be a track meet,'' LCC's San Diego State-bound linebacker Jacob Driver. "We stacked nine in the box at them against those two running backs and we dared them to run at us.

"We shut them down on the ground and then we shut them down through the air.

"Gang Green decided this one.''

The defense held Escondido's tandem of Ricky Seale and Tim Zier to barely 200 rushing yards. Seale needed 24 carries to reach 101 and Zier, who also returned a deflected interception 77 yards for a first-half touchdown, had 11 carries for 100 yards.

That opened the way for the offense to roll up 311 total yards ---- to Escondido's 206 ---- and score on its first drive of the second half to close the deficit to 17-14 with 9:21 left in the third period.

Then an eight-play, 67-yard drive finished with Frausto's 25-yard run with 11:25 remaining accounting for the game's final score.

"We played hard on defense and we had some chances,'' Escondido coach Paul Gomes said. "LCC is a good football team for a reason.''

Yeah, the Gang Green Defense.

"There was no doubt we'd get it done in the second half,'' Driver said. "Once we got up on them they kind of panicked.

"We've been in a few games like this the last two years and maybe that was the difference.

"Our game plan was we knew it was up to the defense. When teams have to drive 80 yards to score all the time because our kicker puts it in the end zone, they can't go all the way against us.''

Defenses dominated the first half, but it was Escondido's defensive unit that prevailed well enough for a 17-7 halftime lead.

A pair of second-quarter touchdowns were set up by turnovers. Alex Stinton's fumble recovery set up an eight-play, 30-yard drive for quarterback Zach Embrey's four-yard TD toss to Shea Prince for a 10-7 lead with 4:37 left before halftime.

The Cougars (6-2, 2-1) stepped up once more. With the Mavericks threatening again late in the first half, Zier picked off a deflected Frausto pass and the junior went 77 yards for a TD with just 1:05 to play before intermission.

That lead came despite La Costa Canyon having a total offense edge of 190 yards to the Cougars' 141.

Escondido opened the scoring with a 12-play drive that covered 78 yards before stalling at the Maverick . Sam Altimirano's 20-yard field goal gave the Cougars a 3-0 lead.

La Costa Canyon immediately went down the field on six plays to take a 7-3 lead. The 77-yard drive concluded with Frausto's 22-yard TD lob to junior Kenny Stills with 4:13 left in the first quarter.

This article taken from the North County Times, written by Terry Monahan. Go here to see the article on their site.

LA COSTA ---- To say the defenses will be on the spot would be an understatement.

In a football matchup with implications far beyond just another regular-season game, seventh-ranked Escondido High's high-powered running game tries to take another step toward a return to the playoffs tonight with a game at fifth-ranked La Costa Canyon.

Both teams are tied for first place in the Avocado League with 2-0 records and the winner, providing it can win its final two games, can take a major step toward claiming the league title. Even more importantly, the No. 1 seed in the CIF San Diego Section Division I playoffs could well be on the line as well.

"This will feel like a playoff game,'' said La Costa Canyon coach Darrin Brown, whose club is 5-2 overall after being the Palomar League's co-champion in 2007. "Every Division I team will be looking to see who wins this game so they can see where they stand.''

"The winner should get the No. 1 seed,'' said Escondido coach Paul Gomes, whose team is 6-1 with a loss to Vista as its only blemish. "This game is bigger than most people realize."

La Costa Canyon's defense is on the spot against the backfield tandem of juniors Ricky Seale and Tim Zier, who have combined to rush for 2,379 yards and 34 touchdowns.

Seale leads North County with 156 carries for 1,456 yards and 19 TDs while Zier, the fullback, has 81 carries for 914 yards. Combined, the two average a first down every time they run the ball.

Escondido, which missed the postseason last year, averages 387.3 rushing yards per game. Its total offense is 453.7 yards per game.

"We have to try to slow down Seale,'' Brown said. "You won't stop him or the other guy for an entire game. When they get into crunch time, you know they're going to run Seale to the right side.

"Every player on defense can't give up on a play until Ricky Seale and Tim Zier are laying on the ground.''

Gomes said the Cougars' only chance to win depends on how well the defense steps up against one of the best passing combinations in North County in quarterback Sebastian Frausto and wide receiver Kenny Stills.

Frausto has completed nearly 60 percent of his passes for 1,468 yards ---- No. 4 in North County ---- and 12 TDs.

Stills, a junior, averages 20 yards per catch and leads the North County with 45 receptions for 908 yards.

"You can't cover him with one guy,'' Gomes said. "We've seen teams try to do that on film and it's been a disaster. Defenses can't stuff Seale and Zier just like defenses can't stuff Stills. Kenny Stills is the real deal.

"He may be one of the best receivers I've ever seen.''

Looks like a long night ahead for both defenses.

North County Times Preview and Prediction

Escondido at La Costa Canyon

Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Records: Escondido 6-1, 2-0; La Costa Canyon 5-2, 2-0

Last meeting: In 2005, La Costa Canyon won 21-13 in the CIF San Diego Section Division I first round.

At a glance: La Costa Canyon leads the series 5-0. ... Escondido's offense rolled up 531 total yards in last week's 49-30 win over Fallbrook, but the Cougars' defense gave up 431 total yards. ... La Costa Canyon scored three times in the first quarter to blast San Pasqual 34-7. ... Escondido's offense continues to post eye-popping numbers. The Cougars have rushed for 2,711 yards, an average of 387.3 yards per game, and their total offense is 3,176 yards, an average of 453.7 yards per game. ... RB Ricky Seale leads North County with 156 carries for 1,465 yards and 19 TDs. RB Tim Zier (81-914- 15). Seale and Zier combine to average a first down with every carry. ... La Costa Canyon's leading rusher is Weston Manor with 61 carries for 326 yards and two TDs. QB Sebastian Frausto triggers the Mavs' offense. He's No. 4 in North County with 91-for-152 passing for 1,468 yards and 12 TDs. WR Kenny Stills, a junior, leads all North County receivers with 45 catches for 908 yards, a 20.2-yard average, and 12 TDs.

Prediction: Escondido 21, La Costa Canyon 20

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Ryan's Prediction

La Costa Canyon 28 Escondido 24

Friday night's game against Escondido may very well be the most important game of the La Costa Canyon Maverick's regular season. While anything can happen on any night in high school football for the rest of the season, consider Friday's game the Avocado league championship game, a matchup between two high powered offenses and two stingy defenses - likely the best two teams in the Avocado league.

Midway through league play, Escondido, ranked #7 in the county by the North County Times, comes into the game with a 2-0 record in league play, having already beaten Fallbrook and Torrey Pines in dominant fashion. The Cougars have yet to play Mission Hills and San Pasqual. Mission Hills is a solid team that has the ability to upset Escondido. You can check out the highlight of Escondido's win against Torrey Pines here, and their only loss to Vista here.

The Mavericks, ranked #4 in the Union Tribune, also come into the game with a 2-0 league record, having beaten Mission Hills and San Pasqual. The Mavericks will finish off the regular season against Fallbrook and Torrey Pines.

If the Mavericks can find a way to stop the Ricky Seale and Tim Zier freight train, and win the game, there's a likely chance they will win league and secure a #1 seed in the playoffs, if they can take care of business against two inferior teams in the final two weeks of the season. This is not going to be easy - Escondido packs offensive firepower that the Mavericks have not seen since the Mission Viejo game.

Week after week, the Cougars have lit up the scoreboard, coming into Friday's game averaging a mind boggling 45.7 points per game, through seven games, and scoring a league high total of 320 points. Attribute this offensive fire storm to the Cougars two best and most productive players, running backs #30 Seale and #12 Zier. Both players have rushed for a combined sum of nearly 2500 yards and 38 touchdowns. I've never witnessed this type of production by two players on the same team at the same positions. Will the Maverick defense be able to stop them?

In comparison, the Mavericks offense has shelled out 32 points per game and scored a total of 224 points. The Maverick offense is led by junior wide receiver Kenny Stills, who had produced 908 yard receiving with 12 touchdowns. Senior quarterback Sebastian Frausto has also had a phenominal year, throwing for nearly 1500 yards and 12 TDs, with only 6 interceptions.

The outcome of the game will heavily depend on the two teams' defenses. They're both talented groups with senior leadership, having each allowed exactly 110 points throughout the season, or 15.7 points per game. Whichever defense can force more turnovers, their team will likely win the game. In a game as evenly matched as this one, field position and turnovers plays a HUGE role in the result.

For the Maverick defense, this must their statement game of the year. I truly believe in these guys, and their ability to rough up the opposing offense. As mentioned above, the Escondido offense reminds of the Mission Viejo offense, able to put up big number and break big plays for huge chunks of yards. The best way to shut down a great offense is to come out the first play and hit them right in the mouth, and set the tempo - make them dizzy and weary to move forward. The Mavericks must contain Seale; he is speedy and will burn you if he can get outside and up the sideline. When the Mavericks play cover 2, the cornerbacks MUST shed the blocking receiver and clamp down on outside containment, so that Driver, Seau, and Hopgood can come flying out from the inside and make the tackle.

Expect huge hits and big plays Friday night in La Costa in this clash of Division 1 heavyweights.

There wasn't a whole lot of change this week in either of the 3 polls I follow. But this week has two particularly interesting games that could shake up the rankings for next week.

Fourth ranked La Costa's Canyon (5-2) plays a dangerous seventh ranked Escondido (6-1) in the North County Game of The Week. The game should give us a better picture of who is the top contender for the division 1 crown, as well as who will probably go on to win the Avocado league title. Consider this game the Avocado league championship game for the La Costa Canyon Mavericks. They've already played and beat Mission Hills, the only other good team besides Escondido in the league.

Fifth ranked Ramona (7-0) travels to play Valley Center (6-1). If Ramona loses, expect them to drop to 8 or 9 and Valley center to re-enter the top 10 in all of the polls.


Union Tribune Overall

1. Oceanside (II) 7-0

2. Cathedral Catholic (III) 7-0

3. Helix (II) 5-1-1

4. La Costa Canyon (I) 5-2

5. Ramona (III) 7-0

6. Otay Ranch (I) 5-1-1

7. Carlsbad (I) 5-3

8. Eastlake (II) 5-2

9. Mira Mesa (I) 4-3

10. Mission Hills (I) 4-2-1


North County Times Overall

1. Oceanside (II) 7-0

2. Cathedral Catholic (III) 7-0

3. Helix (II) 5-1-1

4. Ramona (III) 7-0

5. La Costa Canyon (I) 5-2

6. Valley Center (III) 6-1

7. Escondido (I) 6-1

8. Carlsbad (I) 5-3

9. Mira Mesa (I) 4-3

10. Otay Ranch (I) 5-1


CalHiSports.com SD Top 10

1. Oceanside (II) 7-0

2. Cathedral Catholic (III) 7-0

3. Helix (I) 5-1-1

4. Ramona (III) 7-0

5. La Costa Canyon (I) 5-2

6. Valley Center (IV) 6-1

7. Escondido (I) 6-1

8. Carlsbad (I) 5-3

9. Mira Mesa (I) 4-3

10. Otay Ranch (I) 5-3

There's nothing more exciting for a high school athlete than getting recruited to play college football. The recruiting experience is a once in a lifetime one-and-a-half-year journey of excitement, chaos, and pure adrenaline, that usually boils down to that one special moment when an athlete must juggle his options and pledge his allegiance to a college program.

There are so many college programs out there across the United States, big and small, spread across multiple divisions, that determining which programs a player should target is a challenge in itself. Players and families often lack sufficient guidance to assist them during the recruiting process. I know this because I experienced it first hand back in 2004. High school players looking to get recruited, just as I was, often struggle with questions such as:

• How do I gain exposure to college coaches?
• With so many high school players in the nation, how do I know I'm not being overlooked?
• What is the most effective way to market myself to college coaches? Where do I begin?
  
• What information should I send college coaches and when?
• What do I need to do to make an impression on a coach?
• Which camps and combines should I attend?
• Where do I find help?

I was never heavily recruited or offered any scholarships by any big division one schools - they all only offered me a preferred walk-on status - I'm still trying to figure out what the heck that means. With my super competitive mentality, I'll admit, this really frustrated me for a bit, as it does for many players in similar shoes.

Luckily for me, I knew early on I wanted to go somewhere in the Ivy League. This eased the stresses of recruiting because they all recruited an identical academic and athletic profile of player, which made my life easier.

Its important for a prospect to understand early in the recruiting process, during their Junior year, that there's ABSOLUTELY a college out there that is right for them. The important questions become: how will a player find it, and more importantly, how will these coaches find the player?

The one key statement that I will never forget was during my freshman camp when talking to my coach who had recruited me 7 months earlier. He told I would of probably received about 15 scholarship offers if I had played high school football on the East coast. He mentioned the large number of college football programs of all divisions on the East coast dwarfed the number of schools on the West coast. The map below depicts what I'm talking about. While these are only division 1A schools, schools in lower divisions follow the exact same trend.



While I was satisfied with my decision I had made to attend Columbia, I was shocked. I asked myself what could I have done differently to market myself to schools east of the West coast resulting in more scholarship offers? (Heck, wouldn't it be nice not to have to pay for college?)

At this moment I learned an important lesson, that at the time, didn't offer me much value. Every prospect who does not carry a "blue chip" label should listen to this. Majority of college programs, specifically those that are not considered "big time" 1A schools, focus almost all of their recruiting resources on targeting players in close proximity to their region. What this means is that if you live on the West coast and want to have more options to play college football, YOU MUST REACH OUT TO THESE SCHOOLS. They will probably not find you.

In my next recruiting oriented post, I will discuss how the face of recruiting is drastically changing due to advances in internet marketing techniques. Players, especially those that are not blue chippers, will be severely disadvantaged if they do not understand how to market themselves in the new era of internet-inspired recruiting.

*******

If you are a player experiencing the pains of recruiting that I mentioned above - don't worry - know that there is a school out there that is perfect for you. If you'd like assistance, contact me (RyanMettee26@yahoo.com) and we can discuss how to get you exposed to college coaches all across the United States using these new game-changing techniques. Good luck!

Great coaching is arguably the most vital component to producing a winning football team. Before a team can produce, however, they must be developed. Have you ever watched a team during their first scrimmage, generally including a sloppy display of fumbles, missed tackles, dropped balls, and broken plays?

I'm currently reading a phenomenal book called The Power of Coach: Engaging In Others, by Machen MacDonald. In one of the chapter's world renowned business coach, Jim Bunch, dissects the coaching approach.

Bunch explains that in order to develop individuals into a winning team, where each of the components of the team are producing at their highest level, the coach must recognize the three components of successful coaching: a formula consisting of 10% skillset, 40% mindset, and 50% environment.

When you place this type of philosophical coaching approach over a football program, you can begin to understand that the most successful coaches have mastered all three of these components as it relates to running a program and coaching players.

Skillset

A coach must maintain a high skill set, specifically as it relates to understanding his personnel and being able to make "real-time" adjustments during a game.

As an exaggerated example of the first point, a coach that places the fastest man on the team at center probably isn't going to produce a winning team. Each player has certain strengths and weaknesses. Certain strengths play better to certain positions, just as certain weaknesses don't play horribly to certain positions. A defensive back needs to be fast, aware, and agile. They don't have to be the strongest person in the world. However, a defensive lineman needs to be able to battle in the trenches, and physically move offensive lineman, requiring more strength.

The best coaches know their team inside and out, and place all of their players in a position that will play best to their talents and abilities.

Mindset

The coach must be able to help the player focus on the wins they are achieving while helping them to visualize their upcoming performances with perfection. This relates to the physical and mental aspects as they relate to mindset.

A great coach is able to shift the mindset of a player involved in an intense workout from: "Man this sucks. I'm in pain and just trying to survive" to "I'm getting stronger and stronger. Give me more. I don't feel pain."

The same goes for on-the-field situations. A coast must help a player develop a mental mindset that is analytical and proactive. For example, before a play even begins, a great coach will teach a linebacker to analyze simple details that can hint at the type of play coming next. Lineman have a tendency to rest heavy on their hands when it is a run play. The opposite goes for a pass play; lineman rest on their heals and are light on their hands when they get into their pre-snap stances.

If a split second can make a difference between a tackle for loss and a long run, the player that can predict a play will have the advantage at winning the next play.

Environment

I'd argue that environment is much of the time overlooked, when it comes coaching and how that coach can produce a winning team.

If an environment is not growing and evolving, a player will not grow and evolve. Why do you think teams like the Pete Carroll led USC teams have been so dominant in play over the past 7 years? Carroll has developed a culture and environment that is all about competition. Winning is mandatory. Players don't go through the motions and follow the same routine every single day; this would severely limit their abilities to mature as football players.

In order to work at an optimal level, the human brain needs to be challenged, from multiple angles. If the brain follows a similar process every single day, it gets comfortable and loses its sharpness. Every day, coach Carroll's team competes in a different competition. Each day brings new types of competitions.

A coach that can place emphasis on skillset, mindset, and environment will surely produce a better team that a coach who doesn't.

Over the years, the San Diego section has pumped out a ton of raw talent, especially at the runningback position. From Marcus Allen (left) to Terrell Davis to Ricky Williams to Reggie Bush, its hard to find another section in the country that can compare workhorses to that of San Diego's.
Fast forward years into the future and Escondido's Ricky Seale might claim the title as San Diego's next great runningback. He's been skewering offenses this years, running for over 1400 yards and 19 touchdowns in just 7 games. His blazing speed and quick cuts have left defenders stuck in their shoes. We'll see if Ricky Seale is as good as he's being hyped up to be come Friday night in La Costa - my gut tells me he's that good. Until then, we'll have to settle for Reggie Bush's High School highlight tape below (If reading this via email, go to www.rawhidenation.com to view the video). If you've never seen this timeless classic, get ready for a show.

The only night you wouldn't want to play Escondido is on Halloween. Fitted in their black and orange uniforms, the Cougars (6-1, 2-0) will assuredly come prepared for the occasion. In fact, the Cougars can't wait for October 31st when they get an opportunity to travel to La Costa and attempt to knock off the Mavericks, who at 2-0 are first in the Avocado League. Maverick fans, get ready for a nail biter - this game might go down to the wire.

The Escondido Cougar offense packs a punch with not one, but two fantastic runningbacks. Junior Ricky Seale, arguably one of the best athletes in San Diego county this year, has racked up a county-leading 1465 yards, with 19 touchdowns. As if Seale weren't enough for a defense to handle, Jacob Driver, Dutch Hapgood, Michael Kaiser, and the Maverick defense must also stuff runningback Tim Zier, who has rushed for 914 yards and 19 touchdowns. To make things even more challenging, they must also deal with quarterback Zach Embrey, a very capable and accurate passer who has thrown for 465 yards for seven touchdowns and only 1 interception. When is the last time you saw a high school team field an offensive attack like this?

Escondido is coming off an impressive 49-30 victory over Fallbrook, where fans and an unfortunate Fallbrook team witnessed the Seale and Zier tandem in action. Seale rushed for an eye-popping 267 yards and 3 touchdowns. Zier followed up with a modest 179 yards and 2 touchdowns.

This week, the spotlight is on the Maverick defense, who must play smothering defense if they hope to stop the Escondido offensive machine. Escondido, who is throwing up a ridiculous amount of points this season, will come out rushing, trying to get Seale and Zier into a rhythm. If the Maverick defensive line, led by Michael Kaiser, can out-muscle the Cougar offensive line, the Mavericks have a good chance at victory. Expect the Maverick offense to put up big numbers this week, against an inferior Escondido defensive presence. If the offense comes alive, and the defense contains the Escondido rushing game, expect LCC to improve to 3-0 in the Avocado league.

It was all smiles in La Costa Friday night as the Mavericks showed their might, downing the San Pasqual Golden Eagles 34-7 in a homecoming to remember. Mavericks quarterback Sebastian Frausto led the charge with 194 yards passing and 3 touchdowns. Kenny "Big Play" Stills added 151 yards receiving for 2 touchdowns, securing his title as the top wide receiver in San Diego. The Mavericks showed their versatility, attacking by air and ground. Matthew Williams and Connor Garrett also added some big plays, Williams catching a pass for a 57 yard touchdown, and Garrett adding an 88 yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

The Mavericks look to continue their 2-game winning streak when they take on the Golden Eagles of San Pasqual High School tonight in La Costa. This will be La Costa Canyon’s second league game, coming off a hard fought 21-14 victory last week against Mission Hills.

La Costa brings into the game a prolific offense, which is capable of throwing points on the board, as well as a stingy defense, which put on a tremendous performance last week, allowing less than 200 yards total offense against a competitive Grizzlies team.

San Pasqual (2-4) comes into the game coming off a tough loss against the Fallbrook Warriors. In that game, San Pasqual saw Fallbrook score 34 unanswered points, in rout to a 34-13 victory. Things aren’t going to get any easier for the Golden Eagles this week, as they have the Maverick defensive assault, led by linebackers Jacob Driver, Dutch Hapgood, and Ian Seau. Defensive back Connor Garrett has stepped in big as of late. Expect Garrett to be all over the field, on defense and special teams.

Expect another big day out of Maverick quarterback Sebastian Frausto and wide receiver Kenny Stills. Frausto is coming of a solid 198 performance with 2 touchdowns. Stills caught passes for 166 total yards, also.

San Pasqual will run, run, and run. They’ve been doing it like this for years. Expect a ton of option plays, large pregame warm-up jackets, as well as unorthodox offense and special teams formations.

Prediction:

La Costa Canyon 38 San Pasqual 13

Check out the North County Times Preview Capsule Here

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Looking at these updated rankings, a couple things bug me.

First, I don't understand how Carlsbad is ranked top 10? Yes, they've won 3 in a row, but they got smoked by Cathedral Catholic, Helix, and La Costa Canyon. A loss is a loss - I don't care who its from. Their only impressive win is against Mission Hills, who they beat 6-3. I think Carlsbad is much improved from earlier in the season, but let them get to at least 5-3 before they are ranked.

Secondly, in the North County Times poll, how is Ramona ranked above La Costa Canyon? I think Ramona is a good team and very impressive this year, but who have they played? The only way to really judge a team is by their strength of their opponents and the results from each of those games. Ramona's victories have come against: Crawford, El Capitan, Poway, Horizon, Mt. Carmel, San Marcos, and Orange Glen. To me, these victories do not justify a #4 ranking. If Ramona can win 2/3 from Valley Center, Westview, and Oceanside, then let's put them top 4, but not now.

I think the Union Tribune Poll makes the most sense at this point in the season. I like the edition of #9 Escondido. I think they are a dangerous football team, combining a solid rushing and passing attack.

Check out this week's San Diego HS Football Rankings:

Union Tribune Overall

1. Oceanside (II) 6-0

2. Cathedral Catholic (III) 6-0

3. Helix (II) 4-1-1

4. La Costa Canyon (I) 4-2

5. Ramona (III) 6-0

6. Mira Mesa (I) 4-2

7. Mission Hills (I) 4-2

8. Otay Ranch (II) 4-1-1

9. Carlsbad (II) 4-3

10. Eastlake (II) 4-3


North County Times Overall

1. Oceanside (II) 6-0

2. Cathedral Catholic (III) 6-0

3. Helix (II) 4-1-1

4. Ramona (III) 6-0

5. La Costa Canyon (I) 4-2

6. Valley Center (IV) 5-1

7. Mira Mesa (I) 4-2

8. Mission Hills (I) 4-2

9. Escondido (I) 5-1

10. Lincoln (II) 5-1


CalHiSports.com SD Top 10

1. Oceanside (II) 6-0

2. Cathedral Catholic (III) 6-0

3. Helix (I) 4-1-1

4. Ramona (III) 7-0

5. La Costa Canyon (I) 4-2

6. Valley Center (IV) 5-1

7. Mira Mesa (I) 4-2

8. Mission Hills (I) 4-2

9. Escondido (I) 5-1

10. Lincoln (II) 5-1

The Oceanside pirates are ranked the number one team in San Diego according to numerous publications, including the North County Times and San Diego Union Tribune. However, if you consulted a Pirates fan, I'm sure they'd tell you the novelty of #1 in San Diego disappeared a while ago. Oceanside is searching for bigger and better things, like the #1 ranking in California.

After a phenomenal year in 2007, which resulted in a division 2 state title, Oceanside has yet to fall victim to the Championship hangover. Oceanside is 6-0 this season and is ranked by rivals.com as the #56 team in the nation and #10 team in the West. To put this accomplishment into perspective, De La Salle, the perennial prep powerhouse from Northern California, is ranked #9 in the West, and #37 in the nation.

Oceanside is led by long time San Diego coach John Carroll, a champion in his own right, having helped develop and pump out high caliber college prospects his entire coaching career. His most recent project is 3 star Senior quarterback Jordan Wynn, who recently committed to play college for the Colorado Buffaloes.

So will Oceanside go undefeated and repeat as state champions?

I'm not convinced. There is a good chance we'll see the Pirates run the table all the way to the San Diego Section CIF championship game. I'm critical of the argument Oceanside is THE elite division 2 team in Caliornia. The first half of their schedule has been very weak, and has included matchups (and wins) against Eastlake (2-2), El Camin (0-6), Mira Mesa, San Marcos (2-4), San Paqual (2-4), and Westview (5-1), who is not as good as their record indicates. Their real test will come against divsion 2 rival Ramona (6-0) on November 14th. Ramona doesn't play any top- tier teams until Oceanside. It's possible we'll see a last game of the season showdown by undefeated teams - that will be exciting.

Anybody that's ever played defense can understand where I'm coming from in this post... As if it weren't challenging enough playing a team that is athletically gifted, when the game is on the line, or when its least expected, they pull out a crafty play and go 50 yards for the touchdown - ugh! We've all been there as defenders. Enough said! Here are the top 10 most annoying plays to defend of ALL TIME:

(If reading this via email feed, go to www.RawHideNation.com to view videos)


11. Direct Snap
Defenders beware of the direct snap! You can miss it in a flash if you don't have your eye on the ball or aren't following your offensive key. The direct snap is particularly tricky because the center snaps the ball to somebody other than the quarterback. The play hits quickly, and the runner turns the ball up quickly. Defenders - be on your toes and ready to fly downhill!




10. Reverse
The worst part of the reverse is not the part where the opposing team runs for a 50 yard touchdown. The worst part is the oh "sh*t" moment when, as the defender, you crash down, chase the first person with the ball, and then realize you just got fooled. A receiver come from the opposite direction at full speed and take the pitch the opposite way.






9. Triple Option
The triple option definitely deserves to be in the ranks of the most annoying football plays to defend of all time, especially when a team has a fast quarterback. The quarterback can either hand off to the fullback inside, take the ball himself outside and cut up, or pitch the ball to the running back paralleling his moves a couple yards away. The key to defend this play is either having a very fast defense, or being very disciplined with your linebacker run responsibilities. right.





8. Fake Spike
The fake spike can be really annoying for a couple reasons. First of all, if the offense is lined up to spike the ball, chances are you're defending against a two minute drill, which probably means you are winded. Wow, no play, fantastic... 25 seconds of more rest. But wait, a fake spike! The defense is standing around and the quarterback is running a play. The quarterback catches the corner sleeping and wah-lah - touchdown to the wide receiver - how annoying.




7. Statue of Liberty
All I have to say is that if you were Oklahoma in the 2006 Fiesta Bowl, the statue of liberty was super annoying. Just watch the video. Its the final play to end the game, the play labeled #1.






6. Halfback Pass
Halfback passes are extremely annoying because the man throwing the ball isn't even a quarterback! How could a runningback throw a touchdown? Well, it happens. The quarterback pitches the ball to the runningback as if it were a toss play. At the last moment before a runningback would normally turn up, the runningback pulls up and throws the balls deep, assuming the cornerback bites, thinking it was a run play.




5. Wide Receiver Reverse Pass
The wide receiver reverse pass is a little nutty but can come up huge. In the head of the defender you have to consider: the down and distance, the weight distribution of the lineman between their legs and hand, whether the play if a run or pass, when the play is a reverse, and finally, whether the reverse is a reverse pass! That's a lot. Once you recognize its a reverse pass, you hope the safeties and corners have not bitten on the play.





4. Halfback Screen
The halfback screen may not be the most obscure and exciting play, but it can produce big results. As a defender, you must always be prepared for a screen in 3rd and long situations. If you're rushing the passer, you know a screen is coming when the lineman let you go by with little contact. The quarterback keeps dropping deep and suddenly pops it to a runningback waiting behind the lineman. This play is especially annoying as a defensive back if you are dropping into pass coverage many yards away from the line of scrimmage, and all of your linebackers and defensive lineman get fooled. Time to go make a tackle.





3. "Wrong Ball Coach"
This is one of the trickiest plays in the book. Your offensive line and quarterback have to be masters of chicanery to pull this one off. You also need to be playing a very undisciplined (and highly gullible) defense.





2. The Hail Mary
Hail Marys (aka "bombs" or "prayers") generally happen in dire circumstances, either at the end of a half, or at the end of the game, when a team is out of field goal range or needs at least 4 points to go against. As a defender, all you can do is sit in your "prevent" defense and hope nobody gets lucky. The receivers run deep and the quarterback launches the ball as far as he can throw. A smart offense will have one or two people jump for the ball, with any leftover receivers around the perimeter of the jump area, in hopes that a tip falls into one of their hands. Really, the only thing you can say as a defender if you're unfortunate to witness a successful Hail Mary first hand is "dude......"





1. Hook and Ladder
Drum roll please... the hook and ladder is the most annoying play of all time to defend. It always seems to end either ends as a broken up pass or a touchdown - nothing in the middle. It strikes out of nowhere and leaves even the nimblest defensive backs dead in their tracks. I'm convinced the only way to defend this well is to know that its coming.

Here is the week 7 highlight video. There were some huge hits and big time plays this week. Check it out. (If you are receiving posts via email, you must go to www.RawHideNation.com to view the video).

Its been well documented that LCC coach Darrin Brown is not afraid to schedule the best teams in the nation. Brown's scheduling philosophy is simple - in order to be the best, you must beat the best - and we're not just talking best in San Diego County.

Brown and the Maverick program want more. La Costa Canyon may have not won a San Diego Section CIF championship yet, but that will probably all change this year. Why stop at a section championship? Why not shoot for a Divsion 1 state title, and then more? Why not shoot for a national championship? Why not turn La Costa Canyon into a premier national prep powerhouse? There's nothing stopping them.

If this year's Mission Viejo team can be ranked top 50 in the nation (ranked #10 in the west and top 50 as of 10/17), La Costa definitely has the ability to at least match that. Let's remember that La Costa basically dominated Mission Viejo in the first quarter and a half of this year's game between the two teams. The score should of been 21-7 at halftime. I'll take that as a vote of confidence that La Costa Canyon has the talent pool, coaching ability, and and fan support to be a premier national team.

Since Brown became coach in 2000, the Mavericks have challenged traditionally powerful out of section teams including De La Salle, Mission Viejo, Lakewood, Santa Monica, and Dixie. Playing top tier teams is not only exciting for the players, coaches, and fans, but performing well against such teams really builds a program and demands respect from other teams in a section. Playing De La Salle at home in 2003 was probably the most exciting football experience in my entire life. In retrospect, it wasn't La Costa Canyon vs. De La Salle, it wasn't Southern California vs. Northern California, it was number 1 in the nation vs. every other team in the country that had ever dreamed of being the best. The game became more than just a game; La Costa Canyon represented the hopes and dreams of an entire high school football following.

With that said, here are the top 10 teams that I would love to see Coach Brown schedule...

10.Centennial, Corona, Calif.

9. St. Bonaventure, Ventura, Calif.

8. Southlake Carroll, TX

7. St. Xavier, Cincinnati, Ohio

6. North Penn, Landale, Pennsylvania

5. Mater Dei, Santa Ana, Calif.












4. Katy, Texas













3. Long Beach Poly, Long Beach, Calif.















2. Don Bosco Prep, Ramsey, New Jersey












1. De La Salle, Concord, Calif.













There would be nothing sweeter than payback at Owen Owens Field, avenging a 56-27 loss in 2002.

I just uploaded some of the big plays from the game. That was one of the roughest high school games I've seen in a while. This was a great team victory by the Mavericks. They look like the team to beat in Division 1. At this point Mira Mesa would not stand a chance. Credit Mission Hills with playing tough football.

Check out some of these big hits and shifty moves. I'll will have a full game highlight video soon. Stay tuned. (If you are reading this post via E-mail, you must come to the home site to view videos)




Connor Garrett to the house on a punt return. Too bad it was called back.



Clutch sack by #8 Ian Seau late in the game



Form tackle by #22 linebacker Jacob Driver



Shifty run by #28 runningback Seth Hanson



Kenny "Skills" touchdown catch



Dutch Hapgood with the knock out shot

From La Costa Canyon Mavericks vs. Mission Hills Grizzlies

#22 Senior Linebacker Jacob Driver (above)

From La Costa Canyon Mavericks vs. Mission Hills Grizzlies

#37 DB Charlie Rivezzo (above)

From La Costa Canyon Mavericks vs. Mission Hills Grizzlies

#49 LB Dylan Laurino (above)

Game Photos....

La Costa Canyon Mavericks vs. Mission Hills Grizzlies

What was the best play? Click on the "comments" link right below the article title to answer.







Check out the North County Times game recap here

What a game! After hard hits and big plays, once the dust settled, the La Costa Canyon Mavericks (4-2) came out on top, spoiling a Mission Hills homecoming, downing the Grizzlies (4-2) 21-14 for a huge Avocado league win.

The Mavericks can now feast on a Subway party sub compliments of the KUSI Prep Pigskin Report for winning the game of the week.
The Frausto-Stills two headed monster was alive and hungry, eating up the the Grizzlies secondary for most of the night. Maverick QB Sebastian Frausto went 13-for-21-for-198 yards and 2 touchdowns, both of them to Kenny Stills. Stills finish with a game high 166 yards receiving. Stills was precise on his route running and made cuts that would toy with the best of high school defenders.

Cornerback and specialist Connor Garrettt also played an impressive game, intercepting a ball and returning numerous punts for many yards. One of his returns included a 50+ yard punt return for a touchdown, but it was called back after an illegal holding on the Maverick return team.

The Maverick defense came to play, producing a stifling performance, led by defensive lineman Michael Kaiser, and linebackers Jacob Driver, Dutch Hopgood, and Ian Seau. The Maverick defense allowed only 245 yards. All four Mavericks played lights out, attacking a hard nosed Mission Hills offense, running around the field, and making devastating hits on Grizzlies all night.

Give credit to the Grizzlies, however. They never backed down and persevered against a strong Maverick team. Grizzly running back Eddie Sihavong ran for an impressive119 yards.They played without their starting quarterback, DJ Zapata, but Aaron Houser stepped in and did a decent job managing the offense, but only threw for 82 yards.

The two teams made their case for the top two division 1 teams this year, with Mira Mesa an arguable third.

Expect to see another battle from these two teams deep in the playoffs.

We're about 6 hours away from a much anticipated Avocado league opening matchup between the Mavericks and the Grizzlies. The winner of tonights game will find themselves on the high road to a league title. The loser will have to play catchup for the rest of the season. Its looking very likely that 1 loss will separate the league champ from second place.

Here are the keys to victory for the Mavericks:

1) Dominate the line of scrimmage. The La Costa Canyon D-line will have a huge impact on the game's result. Arguably, Mission Hill's biggest weapon is their runningback, Eddy Sihavong, who leads the Grizzlies with 463 yards on 89 carries. Their quarterback, DJ Zapata is also pretty good, throwing for over 800 yards so far this season. The Maverick defense will have to deal with a multi-dimensional Mission Hills offense that can strike by air or ground. However, if they can dominate the line and shut down the Grizzlies running game, the Maverick Linebackers will feast on a vulnerable Zapata standing in the pocket.

2) Make big play on special teams. I'm not sure how good the Grizzly kicker is, but if he doesn't kick it into the end zone, the Mavericks need a big return. The same goes for punt returns. Field position if CRUCIAL in a big game. A good return is the equivalent of a long offensive pass or run. It sucks the life out of the opposing team.

3) The Frausto to Stills connection must come alive. Tonight's game is a perfect opportunity for Stills and Frausto to put up a huge game. The Grizzlies are going to try to bracket Kenny Stills. This means that when Stills runs a route, somebody will defend on top of him and somebody will defend below. The idea of this tactic is to make it extremely difficult for Frausto to deliver a ball. Still is too athletic - this won't stop him. Bracketing is very tough to do against a really fast receiver. I think Stills will go for 120+ yards with at least 2 touchdowns. If they do bracket Stills well, Frausto will have a fun times hitting the other open (and very capable) Maverick receivers.

Prediction:

LCC 35 Mission Hills 17

Check out this great preview article from the North County Times here.

The Mavericks open Avocado league play Friday night against the Mission Hills Grizzlies, a school with a short history, but has already advanced to a CIF section final. Last year could of been a golden year at Mission Hills until they ran into Oceanside in the title game, who of course advanced to win the division II state title.

The Grizzlies come into Friday's game 4-1, led by led by a 6'3 180 pound junior quarterback, DJ Zapata. In 5 games this year, Zapata has passed for nearly 896 yards with 4 TDs and a 112.7 quarterback rating. Zapata matches up against La Costa Canyon's quarterback, Sebastian Frausto, who has tossed for an impressive 986 yards and 10 touchdowns. Frausto's ability to connect with multiple targets expresses his confidence in his teammates and the scheme.

Friday's game could have huge implications on the final league standings. I predict three teams will compete for the Avocado league crown including La Costa Canyon, Mission Hills, and Escondido. I think all teams, at this point in the season, could play each other well. Escondido runs a high powered offense but lacks in the defensive department. La Costa Canyon and Mission Hills are a bit more balanced than Escondido. Let me emphasize: Friday's game is BIG!

The Mavericks must come out of the gates flying, ripe with authority, and pay special attention to Mission Hills runningback Eddy Sihauong, a strong 185 pound senior who has trucked along for 463 yards resulting in 5 touchdowns. The Maverick defense will have their hands full against a big and aggressive offensive line whose starters weigh in at 300 lbs, 235 lbs, 215 lbs, 250 lbs, and 260 lbs respectively. A strong showing against a run heavy RBV team gives me confidence the Mavericks have what it takes to stop the Mission Hills rushing attack.

Friday's game will come down to a couple key factors: special teams, turnovers, and big plays. I think the Mission Hills receiver's could play a big influence on the outcome. Will they be able to exploit an undersized Mavericks secondary? Also, I've mentioned his name frequently this year so far, but how will Kenny Stills show up? He may only be a junior but big players rise to the occasion.

Who will make the big plays on either side? Who will force the turnovers? Who will intercept the errant passes? Friday night should be a good one. In the words of Terrell Owens, "Get yo' popcorn ready."

Five games down with five more to go, the Mavericks have completed half of their season and are prepared to battle for the Avocado League league title, the first crucial step in their quest to win La Costa Canyon High School's first CIF football championship.

With 5 games in the books, its time for the mid-season report card. In more than half their games, at times, the Mavericks have shown a fierce tenacity to fly around and make plays, combined with good decision making, and all around great team efforts. All in all, they look strong heading forward. Their biggest weakness appears to be inconsistent play when the game is on the line, evident in their tight loss to Santa Margarita, a game that they probably should of won.

During their 5 game stretch, the Mavericks have found themselves in 3 types of games: 1) where they completely dominate their opponent (Carlsbad, RBV, Dixie), 2) where they are in a close battle (Santa Margarita), and 3) where they are simply outplayed (this isn't to say Mission Viejo was much better than them).

Lets first consider the possibilities of what this team can likely accomplish. They are ABSOLUTELY talented enough to win a Division I CIF championship. They could of and should of be 4-1 right now. Their only loss came from Mission Viejo, who, when I checked last week, was ranked #6 in the West by Rivals. You can always say "what if" but they should of gone into halftime of that game up at least 14-7.

In San Diego play, the only other team in the county that may have the edge over La Costa, at this point, is Oceanside. They have a suffocating defense, prolific offense, and arguably the best coach in the county in John Carroll. That said, La Costa will not play Oceanside, and even if they did, it'd be a battle like in last year's game. This year, there is a particularly unique opportunity in Division I football. I'd argue that section-wide, the Division I talent is significantly down compared to recent years. Perennial powers like Carlsbad, Torrey Pines, El Camino, Fallbrook, and Rancho Bernardo are a non-factors heading into the playoffs. I don't say this out of biasness for LCC, but simply looking at the game results. When is the last time you saw Carlsbad lose a game 52-3?

Here are the Mid-season La Costa Canyon grades:

Offense: A-, The offense has thrown up 169 points in five games - that's nearly 34 points per game. They are a multi-dimensional offense that can run or pass. I'd like to see them run their receivers deep on more play-action passes. They have the speedy receiver in Kenny Stills. Line him up on the outside and take some shots on the lonely corner. If the defense is running cover 2, run him on the deep out - it'll work everytime.

Offensive Line: B+, When they are focused and on their game, they are dominating. I think they can improve on their inside run blocking, however. Wofford is big, strong, and has the opportunity to continue developing into a big-time player.

Runningbacks: B+, A dynamic multiple-RB attack so far this season. I'd like to see more carries by Weston Manor and Seth Hanson. Let them get into rhythms and run wild behind the big uglies.

Quarterbacks: A-, When Frausto has been given good protection, he's been solid. He's compiled 10 TDs and boasts a 197 QB rating. Having a receiver like Kenny Stills doesn't hurt either.

Receivers: A, They have contributed each game as a unit with everybody getting involved. Stills is the main man but I love the effort and concentration of the entire receiver squad, especially in the RBV game. Jacob Siem has made helped out. I also think Soto can be used as a big threat down on the goaline from here forward. Throw the man the ball up high - he's 6'6! He'll catch it and score almost always. Good overall job by this squad.

Defense: A-, They run to the football, hit hard, and swarm. Right now I think they are a good defense. I think they can play up a notch and be the best in the county. They have the talent and leadership to do this. If they can turn on a mental switch and develop a swagger, watch out for the gang green.

Defensive Line: A-, Pretty good in almost every game, minus Mission Viejo. Mike Kaiser has been the shining star, stuffing runs and getting backfield penetration (I also like Mike's effort on punt team).

Linebackers: A-, I think this crew can be the most explosive unit on the entire team. Excuse my biasness towards scrappy defenders, but I believe that the ability for LCC to win CIF will ultimately rest on the play of the linebacking crew. Driver and Hapgood have been sensational. Driver reminds me of a guy I played with in the Spanos Allstar Classic, Russell Allen. Allen now is one of the defensive captains at San Diego State. Driver flies around and knocks people in the mouth - I love it. Dutch has also been laying the wood all season. He's a great player and I look forward to him making some big plays for the rest of the season.

Defensive Backs: B, They were really challenged in the Mission Viejo and Santa Margarita game against two talented offenses. I commend their play in the Santa Margarita game against college prospects, WR Escobar and QB World, but they let one slip in the final seconds. I think they MUST improve on their ball concentration; when given opportunities to intercept passes in big games, you must capitalize and generate a turnover.

Special Teams: A, Zalud's Kickoffs have sailed into the endzone nearly every week. This is very frustrating for the returning team. Zalud's foot will become ever-valuable late in the season and into the playoffs, as teams refine their games and become more evenly match. I think blocking can improve on punt and kickoff return.

Its great to see former Maverick players heading to play at the same colleges. La Costa has built numerous pipelines to different academic institutions across the country, many of them premier schools.

The University of San Diego is a prime example of this. The Mavericks that have made the jump to college ball at USD include: Jeff Robinson (LCC '02), Jeff Havikan (LCC '02), Daniel Cornsweet (LCC '04), Brett Marquis (LCC '07), and Kort Gibson (LCC '07).

Besides USD, La Costa Canyon continually sends students to top-notch Ivy League institutions. When I played at Columbia, depending on the game situation, we had multiple Mavericks running around on the field at the same time. Columbia seems to be the most popular Ivy League choice amongst Maverick players. The players that have made the trip to Manhattan to play football and receive an excellent education include: Keenan Shaw (LCC '02), me (LCC'04), Tim Paulin (LCC '04), Kris Jensen (LCC ;04), and Corey Cameron (LCC '05).


One of my favorite college football experiences was my freshman year, when we made the trip to Cambridge to play Harvard at Harvard Stadium (left). There was nothing like playing with and against former Mavs, in such a historic college football environment. Ryan Tyler played slot receiver for Harvard at the time.


Developing "pipelines" to colleges offers a tremendous amount of value for a high school football program. Not only do valuable relationships form between the high school head coach and the college coaches, but these relationships increase the likelihood of future high school players getting recruited by these colleges. La Costa Canyon is now considered a hot bed recruiting target for a variety of schools, year after year, producing high quality student athletes.

Take a look below at the top La Costa Canyon "pipeline" colleges. These include colleges where more than 1 former Maverick has gone on to play college ball:

Columbia University


Number of former Mavericks: 5
Players: Keenan Shaw, Ryan Mettee, Tim Paulin, Kris Jensen, Corey Cameron



University of San Diego

Number of former Mavericks: 5
Players: Jeff Robinson, Jeff Havikan, Daniel Cornsweet, Brett Marquis, Kort Gibson


San Diego State University

Number of former Mavericks: 4
Players: Kevin O'Connell, Joran Ohnstad, John Toledo, Jacob Driver (LCC '08)



Palomar Community College (most players went on to play at other schools)

Number of former Mavericks:
Players: Bernie "Bern-dogs" Thomas, Mike Bethea, Stanley Paul




Cornell University

Number of former Mavericks: 3
Players: Matt Cleafish, Matt Schekman, Brad Greenway





Boise State University

Number of Mavericks: 3
Players: Joe Wiegand, Vinny Perretta, Zach Gholson





University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)

Number of Mavericks: 2
Players: Phil Rauscher, Glenn Rauscher




If you are a prospect looking to play in college, I suggest you consider any of the above schools and make reference to former players when contacting their coaches for recruiting purposes. You can also consider GameBreaker Media to help facilitate your recruiting process.

Last night I had to opportunity to watch my good friend Daniel Cornsweet (LCC '04) play a game against Morehead State, down at the University of San Diego. Cornsweet is joined at USD by running back Brett Marquis (LCC '07) and wide receiver Kort Gibson (LCC '07), all former Mavericks. The boys helped the Torreros to a 41-17 victory.

I didn't get to the game until the second half, and Cornsweet, a hard hitting free safety, had already been taken taken out of the game - the Torreros were winning big. However, I was able to capture a couple images and videos of him and Brett Marquis. I was unable to capture any of Gibson. Check out the video highlight below to take a peek at these Maverick alumni now playing in college...

(If you are reading this post via email feed, go to RawHide Nation to view video)



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I've uploaded 4 new JV football photo albums. Thank Tony Hanggie for sending me these great pictures.

Click here to see the new photos.

In 2002, the Mavericks payed a visit to Poway High School to take on the Titans. Both teams were on the bubble, both had aspirations to make it into the playoff and take a run at CIF. The winner of the game would advance to the playoffs. The loser would take a trip fishing. Everything was on the line.

The clock read 1:00 remaining in the fourth quarter. La Costa Canyon needed a victory over a stingy Poway Titans team to get into the playoffs. The Titans had just scored on a 5 yards yard pass and taken the lead, seemingly icing a hard fought game. The La Costa Canyon sideline went dead - it appeared the Mavericks were out of luck.

After a decent kickoff return, with under a minute remaining, the Mavericks found themselves 70 yards away from a trip to the playoffs - enter the Maverick offense and Kevin O'Connell.

A 20 yard pass out of bounds. A quick pass down the middle. Timeout, stop the clock! After a couple failed passes, it came down to this, the down markers reading 4th and 13, with 38 seconds remaining. On fourth and long #7 dropped back to pass. Nothing was open and the rush was coming hard. Scramble! Scramble. Kevin tucked the ball away and sprinted for the first down marker. Out of bounds - first down Mavericks!

Less than thirty seconds remained and the Mavericks found themselves 40 yards away from the playoffs. Could the unimaginable be accomplished? The offense came to the line, the lineman set - "hike." O'Connell spotted Toledo streaking down the right side, 2 feet ahead of his defenders. Throw the ball! Kevin launched it... TOUCHDOWN MAVERICKS!

Game over. The Mavericks advanced to the playoffs.

---

Three thousand miles is a long ways from New England to San Diego, but not for Kevin O'Connell, the 6'5 225 pound strong armed quarterback. In fact, I'm sure he couldn't wait to hop on the plane and get to sunny San Diego, the place he's called home his entire life.

O'Connell makes a special homecoming when his 3-1 New England Patriots square off against the 3-2 San Diego Chargers Sunday, at Qualcomm Stadium. This will be a particularly special trip for the La Costa Canyon the San Diego State alum who worked hard his entire football career to make it to the NFL. Expect a ton of O'Connell supporters at Sunday's big game.


Kevin played quarterback for La Costa Canyon, graduating in 2003. He went to San Diego and collected the school record for yards rushing by (1,312) and touchdowns rushing (19) by a quarterback. When playing with Kevin throughout Pop Warner and into high school ball, even considering Kevin's prominent physique - perfect for an NFL quarter - I was always impressed by Kevin's leadership, his ability to take control, pull an offense together, and make the big play when the game was on the line.

Tomorrow, turn on the Chargers game and give Kevin a cheer. He deserves it.

You can also check out these two video of Kevin below. One is from San Diego State. The other is on drat day. If you are receiving this post via RSS feed, you must come to the site to view it.

Friday night kicked off Avocado league play, although 2 of the league's teams were inactive. Here are the results from the field:

Fallbrook downs Rancho Buena Vista 21-18, (article here, photos here)
















Vista outplays Escondido 28-14, (article here, video here, photos here)





















Oceanside stifles San Pasqual 42-8, (article here, video here, pictures here)















Torrey Pines squeezes past El Camino, 10-3 (photos here)















Mission Hills, Bye