10. El Dorado (13-1): The defending CIF-Southern Section Southwest Division champion Golden Hawks come into the season with the county’s longest winning streak, 13 games.

9. Santa Margarita (10-3): Everyone overlooked the Eagles last year, and then they bet Mater Dei in league and Mission Viejo in the playoffs, so don’t overlook them this year.

8. San Clemente (8-3): Senior QB Brad Curtis might not be getting the attention that Barkley, Bridgford and Crissman receive, but he is a very good one.

7. Esperanza (9-2): Blocking and tackling might be the most important components of the game, and the Aztecs are always among the county’s finest at both.

6. Los Alamitos (7-4 in 2006): The Griffins could be spectacular offensively, with QB Clark Evans enjoying a large group of skilled receivers, and their defense has the potential to be outstanding, too.

Contact the writer: sfryer@ocregister.com