We Open Our 2019 NorCal Preseason Football Rankings With Two Programs Who Finished 2018 Unranked — But Look Ready To Take The Next Step •
This is the first of five releases this week debuting the opening 10 teams to our expanded 2019 NorCal Preseason Rankings. Mitty’s promise lies with one of the most experienced and proven quarterbacks in the West Catholic Athletic League. Manteca is building around a trio of senior playmakers. Here’s a closer look at each.
30. ARCHBISHOP MITTY-SAN JOSE (6-6)
The 2018 Archbishop Mitty-San Jose football team huddles together prior to a midseason game. (Twitter, @MittyHSfootball)
FINAL 2018 NORCAL RANK: NR
OUTLOOK: The Sione Ta’ufo’ou coaching regime will enter year two as they look to build from a .500 record in 2018. This season’s success will firmly rest on the shoulders of dual-threat quarterback, Shamir Bey. Ready to carry that responsibility he has recommitted himself to football—putting basketball on the back burner and perfecting his craft behind center year round. The Monarchs will also heavily rely on electric all-purpose back, Reymello Murphy. The junior finished his sophomore campaign with 14 total touchdowns—four passing, four rushing and six receiving.
KEY GAMES: @ Marin Catholic-Kentfield, 9/7; @ Serra-San Mateo, 10/11; ST. FRANCIS-MOUNTAIN VIEW, 10/25; @ Valley Christian-San Jose, 11/8.
29. MANTECA (8-4)
A collection of Manteca’s section championship banner. (Twitter, @MantecaFootball)
FINAL 2018 NORCAL RANKING: NR
OUTLOOK: The Buffaloes’ attempt at a Sac-Joaquin Section three-peat fell short in 2018. Looking for a return to the top, Manteca will rely on senior production at key positions. Quarterback Ryan Ward threw 22 touchdown passes last season. Leading rusher Trabron Russell enters his final season looking to surpass his 1,320 yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground as a junior. Speedy, dual-threat receiver Jacob Dejesus rounds out the Buffs’ Big 3. He caught 14 TD passes and added five more on the ground. If an experienced defense can match the offensive firepower, the ceiling will be high.
KEY GAMES: @ Tracy, 9/13; CENTRAL CATHOLIC, 9/20; Oakdale, 10/4.
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