OCVarsity preview for the 2015 season:
MATER DEI MONARCHS
Coach: Bruce Rollinson
Last season: 9-3 overall, 3-2 league
Scouting report: This is the county’s No. 1 team going into the season. The Monarchs have a superb assemblage of skill players. Running back Brandon LaMarche was all-league last year when he rushed for 526 yards and nine touchdowns. The receiving corps includes Osiris St. Brown, who transferred from Servite and gives Mater Dei a speed threat it has not had at the position in several years. “He’s got that burst that can stretch the field at any time,” Rollinson said. The offensive line has USC-committed tackle Frank Martin but is mostly a young, untested group. The Monarchs’ quarterback situation was not settled going in their opening game and might not be for a couple of weeks. Junior Matt McDonald and freshman JT Daniels have been in a close competition. Another of Mater Dei’s strengths is the defensive secondary where juniors Jalen Cole and Roman Kafentzis will be standouts. Linebacker Curtis Robinson, who committed to Stanford, is ranked No. 3 among the county’s top recruits. Martin is No. 4. The defensive line has little varsity experience. Special teams often is a Mater Dei strong suit and should be again this year with Elias Deeb outstanding at punter.
Bottom line: Rollinson’s 27th year coaching the Monarchs could be a memorable one, although the nonleague schedule that starts with state No. 4-ranked Bishop Amat and the tough Trinity League present huge challenges.
Players to watch: Jalen Cole, DB, Jr.; AJ Collins, Wr, Sr.; Brandon LaMarche, RB; Sr.; Curtis Robinson, LB, Sr.; Osiris St. Brown, WR, Jr.
Contact the writer: sfryer@ocregister.com
