Isaiah Burse, Modesto Christian quarterback

When Isaiah Burse transferred to Modesto Christian, the question was how the sophomore would fit into the Crusaders' system. If his performance against Mariposa is any indication, it suits him just fine.

He completed 9 of his 11 passes for 186 yards and three TDs, and had 11 carries for 69 yards and two TDs -- using his mobility to escape pressure when the Grizzlies broke through -- as MC rolled to a 52-14 win.

"Having a mobile quarterback impacts the offensive line in many ways," MC coach Mike Parsons said. "The biggest is that they can never give up on a play, never. We coach playing to the whistle on every play, but it really holds true with Zay on every play."

MC (4-1) visits Ripon Christian in Saturday night's Trans-Valley League opener: "After five weeks, my assessment has not changed," Parsons said. "Escalon has to be the favorite, but I would not be surprised if Ripon or Hughson knocked off the Cougars."

-- RICHARD T. ESTRADA