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OCVarsity’s season preview for 2016:

COSTA MESA MUSTANGS

Coach: Glen Fisher

Last season: 5-5 overall, 1-4 in league

Scouting report: After a 5-1 start last season, Costa Mesa finished with a four-game losing streak and scored only 22 points during that stretch. The Mustangs averaged 21.6 points per game before that. The difference was a healthy Ben Swanson at quarterback. Now a junior, he is back after suffering a broken collarbone. He gives Costa Mesa a talented offensive leader, but the unit has areas of concern, including an offensive line with only two returning starters. The Mustangs had a strong rushing attack last year, and they need junior Tim French and senior Cody Merrifield to lead them on the ground. Merrifield is also playing at safety spot. Roman Ayala anchors the defense at linebacker and also starts on the offensive line. Coach Glen Fisher described the defense as aggressive and one that plays well together.

Bottom line: Depth is a major concern, but if the Mustangs stay healthy and the offense can gel under its new coordinator, they can be a contender for a playoff berth.

Players to watch: Ben Swanson, QB, Jr.; Cody Merrifield, SS/RB, Sr.; Roman Ayala, LB/OL, Sr.; Adrien Plancarte, DE/OL, Sr.; Tim French, RB, Jr.

COSTA MESA SCHEDULE

COSTA MESA ROSTER

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Contact the writer: preps@ocregister.com