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Can Servite win three consecutive Southern Section Pac-5 titles? History indicates that it's not likely, but since Troy Thomas took over a program that had won only three league games in four seasons, the Friars have won a share of six straight league titles, reached at least the semifinals four times, won a State Bowl Championship, and won the state's toughest division in back-to-back years.

The Friars should again be tough on defense even though only four starters return. The last two years Servite had a leader with a bruising physical presence — Jake Slemmer in 2009, and Matt Inman in 2010. Who will rise into that role this season? The obvious choice is Brigham Young-bound linebacker Butch Pauu, who's in his third season as a starter.

Last season's embarrassing 48-8 loss to Concord De La Salle in the Open Bowl Championship series ended a 25-game winning streak and forced the Friars to refocus even though they have won 28 of their last 30 games.

"We've made a step up on both sides of the ball — we had to," said Thomas, who is 96-29 in nine years as a head coach, 62-16 at Servite. "We learned that what we were doing wasn’t good enough. Technically, we were not doing a good enough job to play with a De La Salle up front, and that’s on me. We’ve been studying hard and working diligently as a coaching staff. I’m really happy with our offensive line coach (Jim O'Connell) and defensive line coach (A.J. Gass). They’re doing some amazing things with our guys. Technically, we’ve really improved."

They've improved? That can't be good news for opponents.

Here is a closer look at the Friars:

Team: Servite

Coach: Troy Thomas, seventh season

2010 record: 14-1, beat Mission Viejo for Southern Section Pac-5 championship; lost to Concord De La Salle in Open Bowl Championship Series.

Returning starters: 12 total. Eight on offense, four on defense.

Key players on offense:: RB Sean DeRosa, OL Travis Averill (Boise State), WR Sam Hunt, QB Cody Pittman, TE Ainslie Johnson, OL Michael Meyer, OL Miles Williams.

Key players on defense: LB Butch Pauu (BYU), DE Jherremya Leuta-Douyere (BYU), DE Conner Einck, FS Domain Mora.

Difference maker: Pittman was just trying to win the job at QB last season and was considered the weak link, yet he was remarkably efficient; he completed 65 percent of his passes with 13 touchdowns and four interceptions. A running threat and improved passer, he comes into this season with more confidence. Thomas says that "he's as good as we've had," at the position, and considering Cody Fajardo was the QB two years ago, that's saying something.

Newcomers: TB/MLB Andrew Moore, a sophomore who will find his way onto the field.

Not to be missed: Santa Margarita vs. Servite at Cerritos College, Nov 11. If the season plays out the way it's projected, the Trinity League title will be decided in Week 10 by the two best teams. The first round of the playoffs will be a step down, for sure.

Coach's comment: " I don’t know how good we’re going to be, we’re just going against each other," Thomas said. "But I’ll tell you this: I really like my team. I like how they practice."

Final analysis: Servite's trademark under Thomas has been its physical play and its defense. By the time Trinity League play rolls around, the defense should be solid. Servite has only one interest, and that's punching its ticket into the Pac-5 playoffs. Even if it has a handful of losses — owing to the difficult schedule that could be the case — the Friars won't be on anyone's wish list come the postseason. Until someone beats them in the playoffs, they're still the team to beat.

Corona Centennial has firmly established itself as the prominent program in the Inland Empire. The Huskies are coming off their second trip to the state bowl championships in the last three years and sixth Southern Section title since 2000.

Centennial enters 2011 in a unique situation, however. The Huskies lost standout quarterback Michael Eubank (Arizona State) and running back Barrinton Collins (Weber State) to graduation, but return four offensive linemen, the most experienced group Matt Logan has coached in 15 years at the school.

Centennial will have far fewer holes to fill on a defense that allowed an average of 14.2 points a game, though most were scored well after the game had been decided.

Here’s a closer look at the Huskies.

Team: Corona Centennial.

Coach: Matt Logan, 15th season.

2010 Record: 14-1. Lost to Palo Alto in the Division 1 state bowl championship.

Returning starters: 10 total. Four on offense, six on defense.

Key players on offense: RB Romello Goodman, OT Lio Lafaele, OG John Hamilton, OT Cameron Hunt, QB Hayden Gavett, OL Anthony Juarez.

Key players on defense: DL Milo Jordan, DL Ngata Tuihalamaka, CB Izaac Colunga, LB Ahkeel Chambers, OLB Isaiah Ashby, DB Miquan Johnson.

Difference maker: His statistics didn’t really stand out last season but Centennial defense lineman Milo Jordan sure did, routinely absorbing two or three blockers at a time, enabling a linebacker to roam free and make the tackle. Opposing coaches certainly noticed Jordan’s game-changing abilities, electing him defensive MVP in the Big VIII League. Jordan, at 6 feet 3, 280 pounds and firmly committed to Arizona State, is expected to be an even more intimidating force as the Huskies try to defend their Inland Division championship.

Newcomers: WR Chase Krivashei, WR Isaac Crandall, OLB Vann Dennis, WR Ryan Pascarella.

Not to be missed: Sept. 9 vs. Ventura St. Bonaventure. No better way to test those preseason rankings than to match a couple of top 10 teams in Week 1. Corona Centennial is historically a first-half team, often securing a double-digit lead before the band takes the field for intermission. St. Bonaventure, meanwhile, is known for its in-game adjustments and ability to come from behind. Should be a good one.

Coach’s comment: “Well be pretty physical on both sides of the ball,” Logan said. “It kind of depends how fast we can get experience [in the backfield]. It might take a couple weeks or so but we expect to be a much better team midway through the season.”

Final analysis: With the quarterback situation a lot greener this season and the nonleague schedule much tougher with the addition of St. Bonaventure, it’s possible the Huskies could take some lumps in the month of September. Any losses, as we’ve learned, are bad for the resume when it comes to awarding state bowl bids. Early on, as Hayden Gavett finds his wings at quarterback, it’ll likely be up to the defense to keep the Huskies in games, maybe even score a touchdown or two. If the Huskies live up to Logan’s expectations and begin to hit their stride midway through the season, that would leave them in good shape for Norco and Roosevelt, two of their main challengers for the Big VIII League title.

Any of the top three teams in these preseason rankings could have been No. 1.

On the surface, Mission Viejo might be the best of the lot with a returning quarterback in Alex Bridgford and the return of a strong running game that includes Jahleel Pinner that is made stronger by the arrival of senior transfer Buzzy Yokoyama from Newport Harbor. They'll be running behind a strong offensive line, and a formidable defense will be there to complement the effort.

Yet in the last two seasons, they have been undone by Servite in the Southern Section Pac-5 semifinals in 2009, and the finals in 2010. What do they need to do to get over the hump?

"We're not going to change a thing," said Bob Johnson, who has a 267-89-1 record in 26 seasons of coaching, including 126-16-1 at Mission Viejo. "If we get to the finals again, no excuses. They beat us both years. We'll come back and try again."

Here is a closer look at the Diablos:

Coach: Bob Johnson, 13th season

2010 Record: 13-1, lost to Servite in the Southern Section Pac-5 championship.

Returning starters: 11 total. Six on offense, five on defense.

Key players on offense: QB Alex Bridgford, OL Austin Maass (San Diego State), RB Jahleel Pinner (USC), OL Colby Cyburt, TE Austin Reuland, C Kevin Carroll.

Key players on defense: LB Ryan Harris, DL Colin Dzubnar, LB Daniel Marks, MLB Wes Hardman, CB Anthony Pierce, FS Max Redfield, SS Doug Ruggles.

Difference maker: Pinner was a handful when he was a sophomore fullback, but now he is a senior who has dropped from 238 pounds to 218 and is stronger and faster. As a tailback, he's going to be tough to bring down. If opponents can't stop the running game, it's game over.

Newcomers: RB/DB Buzzy Yokoyama, a transfer from Newport Harbor.

Not to be missed: Mission Viejo at Ramsey (N.J.) Don Bosco Prep, Sept. 10. Not only is it an East vs. West matchup, but it’s two of the top programs in the nation. Many have Don Bosco ranked No. 1 in the nation, and the national sentiment regarding Mission is very high, too. A win on the road by the Diablos might have everyone rethinking their rankings.

Coach’s comment: "I like the team. I like it a lot," Johnson said. "I don't know if they have more than one loss in the last three years. I like them. It's always fun to have a quarterback returning. I like everyone around here. We have to stay healthy. A couple of key injuries could be really tough."

Final analysis: Mission Viejo is going to score a lot of points. It has a terrific nonleague schedule; besides Bosco, it plays Long Beach Poly, Carson, La Quinta and Redlands East Valley. There are also two terrific league matchups against San Clemente and Tesoro. But it all comes down to the playoffs. Mission's going to be there, but they haven't been able to make the plays to get past Servite. This might be the year.

With regard to the No. 1 team in the ESPNLosAngeles.com rankings, plenty of consideration was given to Long Beach Poly. The roster, after all, is absolutely loaded with talent. This group is set up for success. You'll find a college-bound player at most every important position.

Then again, what else is new? The Jackrabbits are seemingly always stacked.

Looking good off the field, on paper as they sometimes say, and delivering a finished product on the field are two different stories. Nothing is given, Long Beach Poly must prove itself.

Here's a closer look at the Jackrabbits.

Team: Long Beach Poly

Coach: Raul Lara, 11th year.

2010 Record: 8-3, lost in first round of CIF-Southern Section Pac-5 Division playoffs.

Returning starters: 13 total. Seven on offense. Six on defense

Key players on offense: WR Richard Smith (Arizona State), WR Josiah Blandin (Arizona State), WR Randall Goforth (Arizona State), QB Chaiyse Hales, TE Bradford Carter.

Key players on defense: LB Matthew Rowe (Arizona State), Salamo Fiso (Arizona State), LB Jeremy Lutali, DL Jason Fao, DB Jeff Turley, DB David Price.

Difference maker: All the pressure is on Hales, whether he likes it or not. The 5-foot-10, 200-plus pound senior has loads of talent surrounding him, namely three Division I caliber receivers to catch his passes. When it comes to getting the job done, there should not be any excuses here, especially if his offensive line holds up. Hales appears poised for a breakout effort.

Newcomers: WR John Smith, WR Thomas Tucker.

Not to be missed: at Mission Viejo, Friday, Sept. 23. This nonleague showdown with the Diablos, who figure to be ranked among the ESPNLosAngeles.com top 10 programs at the time, is the final tuneup for the Jackrabbits before the embark on Moore League play. A victory will provide a much-needed boost of momentum, perhaps enough to propel a prolonged postseason run.

Coach's comment: “We started to re-evaluate things around here recently. It was something that needed to be done because we've had some of our seasons end earlier than we would have liked. We think we fixed the problems. We changed the atmosphere. Everyone is more committed now. The kids have responded and that's a good thing because we're setting the bar high.''

Final analysis: It's difficult to imagine opponents being able to contain Smith, Blandin and Goforth for a sustained period of time. At some point, odds are, one of the wideouts is going to get loose and make a game-changing play. With that type of threat on the offensive side of the ball, the Jackrabbits figure to have a chance of winning each game they are in once the fourth quarter rolls around. If the defense holds up its end of the bargain, Long Beach Poly could contend for a title.

Sean Ceglinsky covers preps for ESPNLosAngeles.com. Follow him on Twitter.

Alemany made the move into the tough Serra League and the Pac-5 Division and didn't miss a beat. The Warriors went undefeated in league play in 2010 and advanced to the semifinals of the division playoffs.

The team is doing some rebuilding on offense. Junior Devon Dunn is the new quarterback. Coach Dean Herrington says he expects Dunn to add more of a pocket presence to his offense, a bit of a different look after Vernon Adams posed a double threat with his arm and legs as a senior last season. Adams is at Eastern Washington this year, leaving the reins of the offense to Dunn.

The team has five wide receivers all looking to step up for Shane Drozdowski, who graduated in the spring and was the team's leading receiver last year. Corey Sims, Jericho Richardson and Steven Mitchell will have plenty of opportunities to make plays under Herrington's pass-happy offense.

Here is a closer look at the Warriors:

Team: Alemany.

Coach: Dean Herrington, sixth year.

2010 Record: 12-1, lost to Servite, 28-21, in the CIF Southern Section Pac 5 Division semifinals.

Returning starters: 13 total. Eight on defense, five on offense.

Key players on offense: WR Corey Sims, WR Jericho Richardson, WR Steven Mitchell, RB Major Armstead, OL Kyle DeVaughn.

Key players on defense: DB Jericho Richardson, DB DeRon Smith, DB Basil Boyd, LB Rene Deleon, DL Kyle DeVaughn, DL Lestor Cienfuegos, DL Pablo Torres.

Difference maker: Steven Mitchell. Herrington says Mitchell is the biggest game-breaker on offense. As a sophomore, Mitchell caught 24 passes for 372 yards and three touchdowns. Alemany will be looking for someone to step up after Drozdowski graduated. He led the team with 39 catches and seven receiving touchdowns last season. Linebacker Bryce Henderson and defensive lineman Kyle DeVaughn will be expected to anchor the defense.

Newcomers: WR Devin Ross, QB Devon Dunn. Herrington claims he has the best group of wide receivers and would put them up against the squad from Long Beach Poly. Ross will be a important piece in the Alemany receiving corps. Dunn, a junior, takes over at quarterback and expectations are high. He was 10-0 at quarterback for the Alemany junior varsity team and he will have plenty of weapons at his disposal at the varsity level to continue that success.

Not to be missed: Alemany at Bishop Amat, Oct. 14. The Serra League opener pits the top two teams from last year against each other. Alemany went undefeated in its first trip through the Serra League last season. Bishop Amat lost only one league game last year, to Alemany.

Coach’s comment: “I think we have a better team. Every team in our league is going to be better. I like our team. We’ll have to wait and see what happens.”

Final analysis: Alemany moved up to the top division in high school football in Southern California and made an impressive run to the CIF-Southern Section Pac-5 semifinals. The Warriors lost their top passer and rusher, quarterback Vernon Adams, and leading receiver, Shane Drozdowski, to graduation. But this team might have the most talented secondary in Southern California. The defensive line is one of the biggest in the area. The team’s greatest strength might be at wide receiver. The Warriors are five-deep at receiver and will give opposing defenses fits. If Dunn can get his receivers the ball, the Alemany offense will be tough to stop.

Skill players score touchdowns, but many coaches believe games are won on the offensive and defensive lines, and that's where Santa Margarita appears geared for battle.

In its second season under the direction of Harry Welch (232-51-2), Santa Margarita has a huge offensive front, and a pair of defensive ends that Welch says might be the best pair of bookends that he has coached.

Any discussion of line play begins with USC-bound left tackle Max Tuerk (6-6, 296) on a starting group that averages 6 feet 4 and 299 pounds. Tuerk is joined by left guard Cole Luther (6-0, 286), center Dane Crane (6-3, 295), right guard Erik Bunte (6-7, 301) and right tackle Riley Sorenson (6-5, 316). Nimble quarterback Johnny Stanton has to feel pretty good about having those guys leading the way.

The defensive ends that excite Welch so much are Chris Frost (6-4, 258) and Sean Donegan (6-4, 204), who has made huge strides since playing last season on the junior varsity.

Big and physical is a powerful combination.

Here's a closer look at the Eagles.

Team: Santa Margarita

Coach: Harry Welch, second year.

2010 Record: 9-3, lost to Mission Viejo in the second round of the Southern Section Pac-5 playoffs.

Returning starters: Five total. Two on offense, three on defense.

Key players on offense: OT Max Tuerk (USC), WR/DB River Cracraft, QB Johnny Stanton, RB Ryan Wolpin, WR/DB Conner O’Brien.

Key players on defense: DE Chris Frost, NG Mack Pierson, DE Sean Donegan, LB Matt Anderson.

Difference maker: Cracraft (6-0, 195), a junior, is the Eagles' most gifted athlete but may not play for a few weeks because of a shoulder injury. When he returns to the field, opponents will find he has an incredible sense for going to the ball — and for picking up yards after he gets it.

Newcomers: DB Konner Kafentzis, a transfer from Salt Lake City; WR Sean Modster, a transfer from Capistrano Valley; DB Reid Andrew, DB Houston Agan, DE Sean Donegan, NT Ian Dewert, LB Sammy Gibbs, OL Eric Bunte.

Not to be missed: Santa Margarita vs. Mater Dei at Santa Ana Stadium, Oct. 13. It's the Trinity League opener, and both teams know a victory here will go a long way toward getting one of three playoff berths. Not only is the game valuable in the standings, but for momentum, too, with big games looming the following week.

Coach’s comment: “Our biggest concern is inexperience,” Welch said. “We have two offensive seniors starting and three defensive players with experience. With good fortune, a lack of injuries and the maturation of our young team we should be OK. The work ethic, attitude and effort has been outstanding.”

Final analysis: Welch has won large- and small-school State Bowl Championships with Canyon Country Canyon and St. Margaret's Episcopal. His impact as a coach was seen last year when the Eagles did a 180 — they went from no Trinity League wins to four in 2010, and from three wins overall to nine. That was just in his first season. Now, with a full year under Welch and his influence taking an even stronger hold, the program might be ready to take the next step and dethrone six-time defending league champion Servite and make a run for the Pac-5 title.

Zachary Shay made one cut on the dewy grass and a collective cringe soon followed from those at Bishop Amat's Kiefer Stadium. Shay had suffered a nasty ankle sprain on the fifth play from scrimmage, leaving Amat without one of its top playmakers. The Lancers still had enough firepower to defeat Crespi on Oct. 15 last year, but the injury proved to be a downer the rest of the way.

After a 9-0 start to the season, Bishop Amat lost to Alemany in the Serra League title game and fell at home to Tesoro in the first round of the Pac-5 Division playoffs.

Shay, who had seven touchdowns and accumulated 907 total yards before the season-ending injury, is back for his senior season and, if he maintains a clean bill of health, should form a powerful tandem with quarterback Rio Ruiz and tailback Jalen Moore.

Here’s a closer look at the Lancers:

Team: Bishop Amat.

Coach: Steve Hagerty, fourth season.

2010 Record: 9-2, lost in first round of the CIF Southern Section Pac-5 Division playoffs.

Returning starters: 14 total. Seven on offense, seven on defense.

Key players on offense: QB Rio Ruiz (USC baseball commit), RB Jalen Moore, RB Zachary Shay, WR Joseph Cook

Key players on defense: DB Rio Ruiz, DB Ajee Montes, DB Adam Alcantara, LB Jalen Moore

Difference maker: Ruiz, a top baseball prospect who will miss three nonleague games while he plays for the U.S. youth national team, is arguably the best quarterback in the San Gabriel Valley. He's expected to build off the 19 touchdowns and 2,000 yards he threw for last season. Moore, who rushed for 1,634 yards and 23 touchdowns as a junior, will have to carry a heavier load during Ruiz's absence.

Newcomers: To be determined, according to Hagerty.

Not to be missed: vs. Alemany, Friday, Oct. 14. This matchup will likely decide the Serra League, and Bishop Amat doesn't want a repeat of last year's disheartening 38-30 loss in the final week. The Lancers pretty much have the same team coming back, so you figure players will be mentally prepared.

Coach’s comment: "I think we do a good job as a staff of evaluating things day to day and that's what we'll continue to do," Hagerty said. "I know newspaper guys don't like that. You want predictions and all that stuff, but I know we'll be fine. Our kids play hard, are aggressive and are going to be physical. We're going to have a shot to win every game we play this year, with or without Rio."

Final analysis: The Lancers return major contributors from an offense that averaged 35 points per game last season. Barring any injuries, expect something in the same neighborhood from this group. Amat's overall success, though, appears to hinge on defensive improvement and minor contributions from role players. The Lancers have the potential to duplicate last year's No. 4 seeding in the Pac-5 Division bracket, but it's expected that they actually advance out of the first round this season.

Blair Angulo covers preps for ESPNLosAngeles.com. Follow him on Twitter.

Oaks Christian is coming off a championship season, winning the CIF Southern Section Northern Division title over Marmonte League rival Westlake. The Lions kept most of their defense in tact from a year ago, led by Arizona State-bound linebacker Carlos Mendoza and cornerback Ishmael Adams.

After winning a championship last season, Oaks Christian might be headed for a letdown. But coach Bill Redell points to the tradition that has quickly been established at the school in little more than a decade.

It has become expected the Oaks Christian football teams will win CIF championships. This team has a CIF state bowl game in its sights. Keeping the winning tradition alive at Oaks Christian is the main motivation for this team though.

Here's a closer look at the Lions:

Team: Oaks Christian.

Coach: Bill Redell, 12^th year.

2010 Record: 12-2, won CIF Southern Section Northern Division championship, 29-28, over Westlake.

Returning starters: 14 total. Eight on defense, six on offense.

Key players on offense: RB Ishamel Adams, RB Carlos Mendoza, WR Jordan Payton, QB Luke Falk, QB Brandon Dawkins, OL Robert McGee, OL Marcus Piechowski.

Key players on defense: DB Ishmael Adams, LB Carlos Mendoza, DB Jordan Payton, LB Cameron Judge, LB Cole Taylor, DL Marcus Piechowski, DL Marcus Jones.

Difference maker: Jordan Payton. The senior wide receiver will shoulder the load on the offensive side of the ball. He caught 61 passes for 840 yards and nine touchdowns as a junior. Only Blair Holliday, now playing at Duke, had better numbers than Payton last season. Payton will also see considerable time at defensive back. He was committed to USC, but had second thoughts. According the Redell, Michigan is the leader in the clubhouse on the recruiting trail for Payton.

Newcomers: QB Luke Falk, WR Zack Hernandez, WR Zack Bornstein.

Not to be missed: Oaks Christian vs. Bellevue, Wash., Sept 3 at Mission Viejo High. Oaks Christian and the rest of the Marmonte League teams have only one preseason game. Oaks Christian scheduled one of the toughest teams in the country in Bellevue, the reigning 3A state champions from Washington. Bellevue enters the 2011 season as the top-ranked team in Washington and No. 42 team in the country as ranked by ESPN Rise.

Coach’s comment: "There’s great tradition here that the kids feel they need to continue. In fact we have a T-shirt that says Tradition Never Graduates. I think they want to keep up the tradition of a winning program.”

Final analysis: Oaks Christian has been quarterback prep for the past few years. The school has produced Jimmy Clausen, Nick Montana and continued the tradition of sending quarterbacks to major college programs when last year’s starter Richie Harrington made it on the Oregon State football team. Bill Redell said the starting quarterback job at Oaks Christian is still up for grabs between junior Luke Falk, a transfer from Utah, and sophomore Brandon Dawkins. The defense, led by linebacker Carlos Mendoza, who is headed to Arizona State, might be the strength of this team. Eight players return on defense, including Ishmael Adams at corner back, one of the top college prospects in the country. Oaks Christian made the jump from the Southern Section Northwest Division to the Northern Division and won a CIF championship. The Lions were slow out of the gate in 2010, going 2-2 to start before winning 10 games in a row including four in the playoffs. Oaks Christian will most certainly be shooting for another Northern Division championship and perhaps a berth in a CIF state bowl game.

Talking about last season's shortcomings opens up healed wounds, so Carson coach Elijah Asante would rather keep those thoughts in the past. The Colts, Asante says, will carry nothing over from last year's 45-7 drubbing at the hands of Crenshaw in the City Section Division 1 title game at the Memorial Coliseum. It's just a terrible memory now, one that he doesn't even want to use as motivation.

"It doesn't give us any extra anything," Asante says. "It was a game we lost. Crenshaw out-coached us and outplayed us. But that was last year."

With that being said, this year is this year and these Colts aren't shying away from anyone, setting up inter-sectional duels against Mater Dei, Long Beach Poly, Santa Margarita and Mission Viejo to open up the season. "People are giving the teams we'll play more credit than they're giving us," Asante says. "People aren't looking at Carson like it's a tough game for [other teams]."

Here is a closer look at the Colts:

Team: Carson

Coach: Elijah Asante, second season.

2010 Record: 11-3, lost in the CIF City Section Division I championship game.

Returning starters: 12 total. Six on offense, six on defense.

Key players on offense: WR Darreus Rodgers (USC commit), QB Kevin McMahon, RB Kendell Sparks, RB Kameron Walker

Key players on defense: DB Jerrod Moton, DB Jordan Lasley, DL Pu'e Togia

Difference maker: Rogers caught 45 passes for 1,347 yards (29.9 average) and eight touchdowns last season, earning first-team All-City honors as a junior. And that came on a team that generally ran more than it threw. He's the leading receiver among all returning players in Los Angeles.

Newcomers: QB Kevin McMahon (transfer from South Torrance)

Not to be missed: vs. Mater Dei, Friday, Sept. 2. Arguably the area's most intriguing opener, Carson has a chance to build momentum heading into its next three doozies. Perhaps Asante put it best: "Mater Dei is not trying to lose this game. They're whole reputation is at stake. They can't lose to Carson three years in a row. They can't ... under any circumstances."

Coach’s comment: "We set up a really tough schedule and we expect to win every single one of those games. That's our expectation."

Final analysis: Sure, Carson wants to win its third consecutive Marine League championship. That's always the first goal -- win league and get into the postseason. But make no mistake about the Colts' aspirations: anything short of a City Section Division 1 title would be classified as disappointing. Things have set up nicely for Asante's offense, with the addition of McMahon, who he has pegged as "The Cannon." The Colts hope that a multidimensional attack, coupled with some defensive improvement, has them leaving the Memorial Coliseum with hardware at season's end.

Blair Angulo covers preps for ESPNLosAngeles.com. Follow him on Twitter.

St. Bonaventure has made the CIF Southern Section Northern Division semifinals the past two seasons. For any other program, those would be pretty successful years. For St. Bonaventure, they were disappointments.

When asked what goals he has set for his team, coach Todd Therrien said, “Championship.” Short and to the point. That looks like the approach this team will take this year. Make quick work of opponents and move on.

This is a focused and experienced team with something to prove.

Here's a closer look at the Seraphs:

Team: St. Bonaventure

Coach: Todd Therrien, fifth year.

2010 Record: 11-2, lost to Westlake, 37-27, in the semifinals of CIF Southern Section Northern Division playoffs.

Returning starters: 13. Seven on offense, six on defense.

Key players on offense: QB Marc Evans, OG David Barajas, RB Shaun Wick, QB Nick Arbuckle, OG AJ Bennett, WR Jordan Farris, RB Zach Green.

Key players on defense: DB Paul Thompson, CB Bobby Marquez, CB Cameron Penny, LB Dalton Rocha, LB Patrick Kenny.

Difference makers: Wick and Arbuckle. Wick rushed for 1,095 yards and scored 15 touchdowns in his junior season. He also caught five passes for 54 yards and scored a receiving touchdown. Arbuckle was the back-up quarterback to Evans last season and was 21-for-27 passing for 184 yards and a touchdown. Arbuckle is expected to be more involved in the offense and on special teams this season.

Newcomers: RB Zach Green, WR Jordan Farris, WR Elijah Henderson.

Not to be missed: St. Bonaventure at Oaks Christian, Sept. 23. This game has quickly become one of the most anitcipated match-ups in the Marmonte League. The two teams have been in the league for only a year, but both teams have established themselves as the two of the top programs in the league.

Coach’s comment: “We need to figure out who we are on defense the first couple of weeks. We’re going to go as far as our seniors will take us.”

Final analysis: St. Bonaventure has a tremendous senior class and the most experienced team in the Marmonte League. Two weeks before the start of the season, the starting quarterback position was up for grabs. Marc Evans started at quarterback as a junior, but a bout with strep throat cost him five days of practice. Nick Arbuckle is challenging Evans for the starting job. If Arbuckle doesn’t start at QB, he will be in the offensive mix at tight end and on special teams. With a backfield that includes Shaun Wick and Zach Green, plus David Barajas and AJ Bennett on the offensive line, the Seraphs have quite an arsenal on offense.

Follow Tim Haddock in Twitter @thaddock.

Encino Crespi lost several key players from a season ago. Then again, the Celts are no different from any other team in the Southland. Perhaps the thing separating them from other programs is the fact this group returns a solid foundation as coach Jon Mack enters his second year at the helm.

Senior Chris Harper takes over as the No. 1 option at receiver in the high-powered Crespi offense following the departure of Devin Lucien, who is playing at UCLA. Fellow wideout Mike Davison, also an upperclassman, figures to assume a larger role as well.

Here's a closer look at the Celts:

Team: Encino Crespi.

Coach: Jon Mack, second season.

2010 Record: 8-4, lost in quarterfinals of CIF Southern Section Pac-5 Division playoffs.

Returning starters: 15 total. Eight on offense. Seven on defense.

Key players on offense: OL Jordan Simmons, WR Chris Harper, WR Mike Davison, TE Trevon Callahan, TE Jack Vonarb, RB Terry Williams.

Key players on defense: DB Noah Ciccel, DB Nathan Walker, LB Sebastian Edwards, LB Corey Peoples, LB LJ Wilkerson, DL Khorey Gabriel, DL Sean Lomoto.

Difference maker: Simmons, no question about it. The 6-foot-5, 325-pound senior is a superb pass-protector. He is is also a force in the rushing attack, agile enough to get out in space and make a clear path. Accordingly, Simmons is being recruited by most every powerhouse program in the country. He keeps Paul Rawate, Crespi's director of marketing and public relations, busy week in and week out with phone calls from prospective schools. Where Simmons ends up is anyone's guess. One thing is certain: He will be playing on Saturdays in the very near future.

Newcomers: OL Jacob Speer (Granada Hills transfer), OL Colin Prestesater (Glendora transfer), OL Wes Hewitt (Humbolt transfer), QB Cody Cordell (Oaks Christian transfer), LB Sklyer Stone (Westlake transfer), QB Brad Kaaya, WR Jabarian Blackwell.

Not to be missed: at Mission Hills Alemany, Friday, Oct. 28. The host Warriors figure to be ranked among the top 10 teams in the ESPNLosAngeles.com poll at this stage of the season. Crespi might be as well. This game should be for all the marbles, a showdown with Serra League title implications. Clear your schedules now, this one could be a classic.

Coach’s comment: “What a difference a year makes. This time last year we were struggling to teach the language, the fundamentals and the techniques of the game. Now, we are working on perfecting things. I am very pleased with the attitude and effort of this team and cannot wait for fall ball to start.”

Final analysis: Once the Celts determine who the quarterback will be -- Cordell is currently leading Kaaya in the race for the starter's role -- they could possibly be on their way to big things. Harper, Davison and Callahan are reliable targets. And with Simmons in the mix, watch out. Crespi will likely compete for a league title and appears poised for a deep postseason run.

Sean Ceglinsky covers preps for ESPNLosAngeles.com. Follow him on Twitter.

After reaching the semifinals in the Southern Section Pac-5 playoffs, one was left with the feeling that Mater Dei had a pretty good season. It has been a while since the Monarchs have been to the finals, 2002, but they're a great program with great tradition; Southland football always benefits when Mater Dei is one of the teams to beat.

Incumbent upon success this season is getting the most out of its nonleague games. It has fewer returning starters than No. 17 Orange Lutheran and No. 13 St. John Bosco, and the Trinity League is no place to learn on the job.

Mater Dei's first three opponents — Carson, Corona Centennial and San Clemente — are all highly regarded, and the fourth game is against a solid Edison program.

"We have to come out strong and grow and gain confidence during the preseason," said coach Bruce Rollinson, whose program is 206-59-2 and has won five section titles in his two-plus decades at the helm. "The experienced players must carry us early as the young ones grow. And we've got a few young ones.

"The young players must play up to their potential, which we feel is very good, and they have to make contributions."

Here is a closer look at the Monarchs:

Team: Mater Dei

Coach: Bruce Rollinson, 22nd year

2010 Record: 8-5, lost to Mission Viejo in semifinals of the Southern Section Pac-5 playoffs.

Returning starters: 10 total. Six on offense, four on defense.

Key players on offense: TE Josh Cook, RB Freddie Mora, OT Youcheng Cho, WR Thomas Duarte, WR Jameson Field.

Key players on defense: LB Ricky Ortiz, ILB Joseph Campos, ILB Anthony Topete, CB Jonathan Lockett

Difference maker: Mora showed flashes of being a terrific runner in the early going last season, then got hurt. If it turns out that he is the runner that Mater Dei needs, and can take some of the pressure off the quarterback, then the Monarchs have a fighting chance.

Newcomers: QB Ryan McMahon

Not to be missed: Servite vs. Mater Dei at Angel Stadium, Nov. 4. If everything goes right for both teams — and that’s a huge proposition — the bitter rivals could essentially be playing for the league title going into the penultimate week of Trinity League play. After beating Servite for 20 straight years, Mater Dei has lost two in a row. To win a title, it almost certainly can’t let the streak reach three.

Coach’s comment: "We can't beat ourselves so we have to be fundamentally sound and execute, and as the season goes on we can expand the package—especially on offense," Rollinson said. "Needless to say, we have to stay healthy."



Final analysis: The likelihood is that Mater Dei is as good as its quarterback. The Monarchs have had a run of good ones (Matt Leinart, Matt Barkley, Max Wittek) and if McMahon — who had been the freshman and JV starter — is as good as many think he will be, Mater Dei could be in business. But in the Trinity League and the Pac-5, it’s a tough business. He’ll have to earn everything he gets. So will the teammates around him.

Really, St. John Bosco's 2010 season might not have been as bad as it looked on paper. The mediocre 5-5 record didn't tell the whole story and neither did the Braves' failure to make the postseason. Cracking the Trinity League top three is no easy task, after all.

Still, general consensus was that the Braves were really good but, maybe, just not good enough. They were athletic and explosive but, perhaps, unable to get over the proverbial hump due to unripened talent. Those same excuses won't do in 2011 because Bosco is expected to be even better, slightly more athletic and ... ready.

Many of the same faces -- including must-see receiver Bryce Treggs -- return this fall. Mix in a handful of impact transfers and you've got what looks to be a recipe for redemption.

Here is a closer look at the Braves:

Team: St. John Bosco.

Coach: Jason Negro, second season.

2010 Record: 5-5, did not make playoffs.

Returning starters: 11 total. Six on offense, five on defense.

Key players on offense: WR Bryce Treggs (California commit), WR Justin Johnson, OL Beau Boyster (Arizona commit), QB Rene Medina

Key players on defense: DB Dalis Bruce, DB Royce Moore, DB Shane Bauman

Difference maker: Treggs, the nation's No. 21-ranked receiver according to ESPNU, might be the most explosive player in the area. He's shifty and elusive, and has the capacity to line up in the slot or on the outside. The Cal commit made 56 receptions for 1,010 yards and 12 touchdowns to go along with 37 tackles and four interceptions last season.

Newcomers: DB Dalis Bruce (transfer from Danville Monte Vista), RB DaVonte Young (transfer from Irvine and Tustin)

Not to be missed: vs. Servite, Friday, Oct. 28. The Braves played Servite tough last season at Cerritos College, at one point holding a lead before losing to the eventual state runner-up by eight. Mighty Friars beware: a change of scenery might be exactly what Bosco needs to pull off the upset.

Final analysis: With a number of quality players returning, it'd be completely shocking if St. John Bosco didn't at least crack the Trinity League top three this fall. Sure, the Braves were an ugly 1-4 in one of the country's most difficult leagues last year, but, in the eternal optimist's view, their largest margin of defeat was 11 points (to Mater Dei). If Medina shows even slight improvement at quarterback, and Negro gets similar production from Treggs and Co., it could be a special season in Bellflower.

Blair Angulo covers preps for ESPNLosAngeles.com. Follow him on Twitter.

With several standout players from last season off playing college football nowadays, Westlake hopes it can successfully reload, rather than rebuild. And initially, it appears as if the Warriors have some of the pieces of the puzzle in place to get the job done quickly.

Westlake figures to go as far as Justin Moore takes it this season. In the past, the junior quarterback was an attentive understudy to Nick Isham, a three-year starter before signing with Louisiana Tech. Moore's job won't be any easier following the departure of Nelson Spruce and Tavior Mowry, both of whom graduated after being integral parts in the program in the past.

Nevertheless, optimism remains high on campus. Westlake, after all, is used to dealing with a high turnover. Coach Jim Benkert and his boys have been down this road before.

Here is a closer look at the Warriors:

Team: Westlake

Coach: Jim Benkert, 23rd year.

2010 Record: 12-2, lost in the CIF Southern Section Northern Division championship game.

Returning starters: 12 total. Seven on offense. Five on defense.

Key players on offense: QB Justin Moore, WR Cody Tuttle.

Key players on defense: DL Justin Solis (Colorado commit), DB Dashon Hunt (UCLA commit), DL John Stuart, DL Shayne Henley, LB David Ortiz.

Difference maker: Moore, who takes over underneath center. It will be interesting to see how much information has been retained thus far and how he applies the things he has learned. One thing is certain: The 6-foot, 175-pounder is a playmaker. If Moore does not get things done with his arm, rest assured, the multifaceted underclassman will get things done with his feet.

Newcomers: WR Jake Rothschiller, LB Kyle Rothschiller.

Not to be missed: vs. Oaks Christian, Thursday Oct. 6. The Warriors will be revenge-minded in this Marmonte League showdown, especially after narrowly losing, 29-28, to the Lions in the Northern Division title game a season ago. When it comes to bulletin-board material, none is needed between these two crosstown rivals. Both know how much is at stake every time they meet.

Coach’s comment: “Here we go again, football time. We like the group we have here too, they all seem to know what is expected of them. These kids understand we don't have many easy games on our schedule. When we step out there on the field, we expect to be challenged most times. Our guys are not going to back down from anyone. We're ready to get things started.''

Final analysis: If the Warriors plan on duplicating their success from last year, plenty will depend on the play of Moore. Good thing for him is, the whole offensive line returns, more than likely a year stronger and wiser. On the defensive side of the ball, the unit also remains largely intact. That said, Westlake appears poised to make some noise again this season, from start to finish.

Sean Ceglinsky covers preps for ESPNLosAngeles.com. Follow him on Twitter.

Lakewood was already in reloading mode last spring when popular coach Thadd MacNeal left town to take the same position at Carlsbad. Suddenly, the Lancers weren't just looking to replace their two leading rushers, their quarterback and an entire defensive line, but also scrambling for a new coach.

As it turns out, Lakewood didn't have to search far, hiring Vince Lobendahn, who had served as MacNeal's defensive line coach for two years. Replacing MacNeal from within made sense, if only for the fact that the Lancers were 45-15 in MacNeal's five years at the helm. Continuity and familiarity figure to be important for a team that, in recent years, has raised expectations.

Big Red might not be as publicized, or feared, as it has been but there is enough talent coming up from the lower levels for Lakewood to be a dark horse pick in the Pac-5 Division.

Team: Lakewood.

Coach: Vince Lobendahn, first season.

2010 Record: 10-2, lost in the CIF Southern Section Pac-5 Division quarterfinals.

Returning starters: Seven total. Three on offense, four on defense.

Key players on offense: WR Darius Powe, WR Malik Gilmore (Oregon State commit), WR X'avier Shepherd, K Alex Boy

Key players on defense: DB Darius Powe, DB Daylon Cason, DL Anthony Davis

Difference maker: The spotlight figures to shine bright on Powe after the Lancers' loss of tailback Rashad Wadood (Arizona State) and tight end/defensive tackle Todd Barr (California) to graduation. Powe, the No. 13-ranked receiver in the 2012 class according to ESPNU, caught 43 passes for 822 yards and six touchdowns last season, garnering first-team All-Moore League honors.

Newcomers: QB Brock Dale (transfer from Peninsula), DL Anthony Davis (up from junior varsity), RB Kendall Rodgers (up from junior varsity), DB Jaleel Wadood (up from freshmen team)

Not to be missed: vs. St. John Bosco, Friday, Sept. 9. Matching up against a highly-regarded Trinity League contender might allow us to gauge the Lancers' 2011 capabilities. In fact, you could make the case that even a small-margin defeat would be viewed in a positive light, given the Braves' potent offensive attack and deep stable of returning players. Either way, Lakewood's John Ford Stadium promises to be electric on this night, as Bosco looks to avenge last season's loss.

Coach’s comment: "We want to show everybody that we didn't just drop off the map. We want to capture that Moore League and work our way through the CIF playoffs."

Final analysis: A running game that lost more than 60 percent of yardage gained will rely on the inexperienced duo of Keith Franklin and Rodgers, a 5-foot-10 tailback who averaged 10 yards on 32 carries as a sophomore last year. If opposing defenses concentrate on stopping the two-headed monster that is Powe and Gilmore, then it isn't too farfetched to think that the Lancers can have success on the ground. The big key will be line play, both defensively and offensively. And as far as Moore League aspirations go, Lobendahn thought his squad held its own against defending champion Long Beach Poly during the summer 7-on-7 passing circuit. The Lancers would like nothing more than to take back what they captured in 2009.

Blair Angulo covers preps for ESPNLosAngeles.com. Follow him on Twitter.