Numbers game at TC, RC has attitude and new 'Dogs

Turlock Christian's got a new coach in Shane Smith and he expects to have 30 players for tonight's opener at Fresno Christian. That includes 6-foot-6 Chase Gonzalez, who threw for 1,600 yards in six games. He missed the middle four weeks of the season after breaking his collarbone, then finished the season by hitting 14 of 21 for 305 yards and five TDs in a 48-40 loss to Delhi. He had thrown seven picks a week earlier in a 48-6 loss to Denair, so consistency is going to be crucial. Nick Steeley and Thomas Sawyer return to catch passes.

RC's Got Attitude

There will be no lack of excitement when Ripon Christian gets on the field, not with Andrew Brown in the backfield. He was a scoring machine as a sophomore with 34 TDs, running for 28 and catching six. He had 2,284 yards of offense — he was the district's No. 5 rusher at 1,718 yards — and delivered some electrifying plays in a league better known for power football. He had a good summer playing 7-on-7 with RC and showed a little 'tude at the MJC tournament. After running past a few defenders for a TD, Brown flashed the ball back at them with a grin. He got a quick word from his coach, but not before his teammates smothered him with love.

Time To Feed New 'Dogs

Last year was a dream for Le Grand that culminated with an appearance in a state bowl game. The Bulldogs have made three straight section title-game appearances; it has compiled an impressive 22-3 record the last two season. "We can't think about last year. It's over," LB/FB Dustin Slate said. "Last year we scored basically whenever we wanted to. This year we have to work harder. Our passing game isn't going to be the same. We don't have a 6-foot-4 receiver (Zach Moreno) to throw to whenever we want."