Sunset  League

COACHES POLL

1. Los Alamitos, 7-3 in 2007, 31 points
2. Edison,8-4, 29
3. Esperanza, 10-2, 23
4. Newport Harbor, 8-4, 19
5. Fountain Valley, 5-5, 16
6. Marina, 3-7, 8

(Click on team link to reach team previews)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Los Alamitos - The Griffins' streak of consecutive playoff appearances was snapped at 23 seasons in 2007 but they return an athletic and experienced offense. If the Griffins get solid play along the lines, a league title and more could be in reach.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Marina - The Vikings' three victories last season under Coach Dan Petrone
matched the schools' total from the previous three seasons. While Marina is light on
returning starters, it has been encouraged by the improvement at the skills positions.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Clark Evans
Los Alamitos quarterback
As a junior, the Colorado-commit passed for 2,118 yards and rushed for 952 more yards. Look for both numbers to improve in 2008. Also look for Evans to play defensive end in passing situations.

OTHER TOP PLAYERS

Esperanza: Sean Avila, Sr., NT; Jared Moore, Sr., RB
Edison: Jeff Crissman, Sr., WR/CB
Newport Harbor: JB Green, Sr., WR/CB; Brandon Kula, Sr., LB/RB; Cecil Whitside, Jr., WR/LB
Los Alamitos: Darryl Jenkins, Sr., WR; Paul Richardson, Jr., WR
Fountain Valley: Kyle Middlebrooks, Jr., RB

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Edison vs. Los Alamitos
Oct. 23 at Veterans Stadium
These two played a pair of close games during summer passing league and this could be close. The Griffins won last season's game, 13-9.

TOUGHEST SCHEDULE

Edison: Servite and Mater Dei back-to-back. Enough said.

Related:
• Sunset  League  schools: Edison |  Esperanza | Fountain Valley | Los Alamitos | Marina | Newport Harbor
• All Football Kickoff '08 articles

Contact the writer: dalbano@ocregister.com