Welcome Blue Line members: Escobar, Whiting

• Blake Escobar, Central Catholic: He was the fullback in August, moved to the offensive line September and is back at fullback for the playoffs — but his primary role is at middle linebacker. The 6-foot, 210-pounder has anchored a defense that has helped propel CC to the Sac-Joaquin Section Division 4 title game. He has just 20 carries for 142 yards and three TDs, but has accounted for 75 tackles along with two sacks — both coming in last week's 35-13 win over Center — and two interceptions.

• Brock Whiting, Oakdale: The idea of a sophomore on varsity was virtually unheard of before a group of five were promoted in 2010. The 6-1, 160-pound Whiting came up this fall and has found his role as a hard-charging linebacker. His punishing hit last week knocked the ball loose and led to a fumble during a 42-19 win over American Canyon. His brother Boone pitches in the St. Louis Cardinals' organization, and Brock was a bruising defensive end at Oakdale. Brock has had a few carries at fullback, and is expected to contend for more work next fall following the graduation of fullbacks Nikk Ryan and Josh Watts.

• ONLINE: Players are hyperlinked on www.modbee.com — hence, "The Blue Line" name — and all content (stories, pictures, video) with their names will be collected in a special area on the site.