Top five to watch

Matt Barkley, Mater Dei, QB, 6-3, 217, Jr. — His arm strength and athleticism are just two reasons why he has started since he was a freshman at one of the county’s biggest programs. Barkley is the highest rated quarterback recruit in the class of 2009 by rivals.com. He passed for 1,354 yards and 11 touchdowns last year and has won 17 games in two years. He is uncommitted but said he is leaning toward USC.

Derrick Coleman, Troy, RB, 6-0, 225, Sr. — He is one of the most powerful rushers in the county. Coleman should get a lot of carries in Troy’s Wing-T offense and could challenge the county’s single-season rushing record. Last year he rushed for 2,340 yards and 38 touchdowns. The all-county back has committed to UCLA.

Nick Crissman, Edison, QB, 6-3, 200, Sr. — The all-county quarterback impressed with his accuracy and led the Chargers to the Pac-5 Division championship game. He had 3,105 yards and 27 touchdowns. This summer he committed to UCLA and was a member of the Elite-11 quarterback camp.

Matt Kalil, Servite, OL, 6-7, 285, Sr. — His size, strength and athleticism make him one of the premier blockers in the nation. Kalil is rated the first or second best offensive lineman by most publications. He is committed to USC and is the younger brother of NFL lineman, and former USC All-America, Ryan Kalil.

D.J. Shoemate, Servite, WR/DB, 6-1, 220, Sr. — Two years ago he was the most explosive playmaker in the county. He had 13 touchdowns receiving and 13 rushing and was selected as the state’s top sophomore. The USC-commit missed nearly all of 2006 with an ankle injury, but he is back to help the Friars make a run at the Trinity League and Pac-5 titles.