FOOTHILL LEAGUE

TEAM TO BEAT

It will remain Hart until somebody proves otherwise. The Indians have won 43 consecutive league games and nine league championships in a row. They must address weaknesses in the offensive line and running game, but no one in the region has a better defensive line.

CHALLENGERS

Valencia, which lost to Hart last season in the division final, figures to be the top threat. The Vikings’ offense is more balanced than it’s ever been and their defense is solid. They have overcome early-season turmoil and enter league play in full stride.

THE REST

Saugus advanced to the semifinals last season, but turnovers and inconsistency have made the Centurions a dark horse for the league title. Canyon has a good defense and running game, but this is a league defined by the pass, and the Cowboys are averaging 40 yards a game in the air. Burroughs has a prospect in WR/DB Keith Jarbo, but its only victory came against winless Glendale. Burbank is much improved but figures to struggle in league play.

STANDINGS

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League Overall School W L T W L T PF PA Valencia 0 0 0 4 1 0 158 52 Hart 0 0 0 3 2 0 116 68 Canyon 0 0 0 3 2 0 74 66 Saugus 0 0 0 2 3 0 109 72 Burbank 0 0 0 2 3 0 100 137 Burroughs 0 0 0 1 4 0 92 110

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DATES TO MARK

Oct. 13 Saugus vs. Valencia

Oct. 20 Hart vs. Valencia

Nov. 9 Saugus vs. Hart