La Habra vs. Fullerton: Who has the edge?

Quarterbacks

La Habra's Chris Morales is one of the best quarterbacks in the county. He has been efficient all season, exemplified by a completion percentage (65 percent) and a better than 3-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. His 2,202 yards could have been even better if not for his team's dominance. Fullerton's Thomas Sheehan has run for nearly 600 yards and nine touchdowns, but he only throws about seven times a game. He might need to do more passing if the La Habra run defense continues its dominant ways.

Edge: La Habra

Running backs

La Habra is led by Jason Davis, with Ronnie Hillman and Josh Quezada not too far behind. The three players have combined for 2,158 yards and 27 touchdowns, which is nearly identical to the 2,158 yards and 25 touchdowns for Fullerton's Michael Allain. The Highlanders' flexibility makes them more dangerous in this area. But Allain's scintillating playoff run (786 yards, 10 TDs), and the fact he is a carry-the-load-type player that Fullerton can count on, could be  crucial in close, late-game situations.

Slight edge: Fullerton

Receivers

There might not be a go-to guy in La Habra's core, but the bevy of options is frightening. Petey Puga, Hillman, Travis Bourne, Chris Alvarez and Davis all have more than 10 catches. Fullerton is led by Jon Lindsey, Chris Peek and Josh De Gala, who have combined for 39 catches, less than Puga's total.

Big edge: La Habra

Defense

The Highlanders have shifted into another gear during the playoffs. The 21 points they've allowed in their three games have come with the games out of reach. The biggest challenge will be to its run defense. Only Villa Park, which La Habra played in September, was able to throw and run the ball against this unit. Fullerton has saved its best for last, allowing seven points the past two games. With all of those La Habra playmakers, the Fullerton defensive backs and linebackers will be tested.

Edge: La Habra

Intangibles

La Habra began the season determined to make it this far and has played like it throughout. When La Habra didn't get the top seed in the playoffs it probably deserved, it was the worst thing that could have happened to its opponents. The Highlanders do not just want to win, they want to make a statement. Fullerton has been playing for respect and has thrived in the situation. Its us-against-the-world attitude has taken it further than most expected.

Slight edge: La Habra

Contact the writer: amaya@ocregister.com