2009 Small School Preseason Football Rankings

By Richard T. Estrada
restrada@modbee.com

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1. Central Catholic (11-2 last year): A Division III State Bowl team a few years ago, the Raiders will return if they run the table -- but that's a tall task.

2. Escalon (11-1): Strong line, veteran QB to run the Wing-T and a stable of fine backs. Throw in all-district K Jason Diniz, and a title is likely.

3. Modesto Chr. (8-3): QB Isaiah Burse is worth the price of admission any Friday night. Crusaders will rival Los Banos when it comes to scoring.

4. Patterson (8-4): Plenty of turnover from last year's team, but it might be for the better. Tigers are big and quick, and they've got some swagger.

5. Argonaut (7-4): Mustangs want to be the first MLL team to win the section title since 2004 -- when they won it. Have to beat Central, though.

6. Summerville (6-4): Plenty of momentum after impressive first-round playoff loss to Central a year ago. They'll be outscoring most opponents.

7. Hughson (5-5): New coach Don Tetrick has the makings of a strong running game. TVL will be a battle, though, with Escalon and MC awaiting.

8. Hilmar (12-1): Defending section champs will be upset by lack of respect, but graduation took most everyone from last year's surprising team.

9. Calaveras (7-4): Redskins sporting a new look on offense, moving away from the smashmouth of years past to better exploit their quickness, agility.

10. Le Grand (7-5): RB Tony Ortegon 329-yard, four-TD game as a junior. He'll be busy again this year, because the Bulldogs love to pound the ball.