Gridiron's Week Three Picks

High Flying Roadrunners Post Big Win!

Week Two Recap

Dust Up In Abbottsford!

One of my favorite movies of the past decade is Gangs of New York.  One of my favorite lines/scenes in that movie is when the young up and comer Amsterdam gets into a scrap with one of the gangster Bill the Butcher's senior henchmen McGloin.  Amsterdam tunes him up and Bill hollers a resounding "The Mighty McGloin, let himself get fish hooked by a sprat"...much to McGloin's rage and discomfort.   Hey Mission, 22-15 victors over AAA ball's legendary and #2 ranked WJ Mouat Hawks...way to go.  You fish hooked em alright! Great Job!!!

In other action Barsby continued to roll and Seaquam made a huge statement about things to come with a sound victory over Kelowna.  Bateman survived a scare vs Nanaimo and South Delta added another W to their season.  Windsor is getting their legs under them after playing well offensively vs Vanier, but has yet to convince me that they can play with smashmouth teams in the mud.  They will get their chance to do so down the road I reckon.  I like the big win by Ballenas and was a bit shocked by Hugh Boyd's performance.  All can be well for the Trojans with a big game next week however.  In the Interior the Maroons exploded for big points and El Norte is quickly shaping up to be the Nechako Valley show for 2011.

In The Deuce, Nanaimo District has been impressive during their first two games and Island squads such as Milne and Vanier have surely declared they are playing for the marbles in 2011.  Timberline is back people and are going to shred some secondaries in the coming weeks.  We will all see if Moscrop is for real this coming weekend as they look to build upon an air show performance vs Isfeld.  Howe Sound was a big surprise as well as they played Valleyview to a draw this past weekend.


GI's Week Three Top AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Seaquam
4. South Delta
5. Handsworth

GI's Week Three "The Deuce" Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. G.P. Vanier
3. Timberline
4. E.J. Milne
5. Moscrop

GI's Week Three Picks

Wednesday, 21 September

College Heights @ Nechako Valley: The Vikings have positioned themselves as the early season favorite to run the table and represent the North in the November playoff dance.  College Heights is looking to keep this one close with defense and ball control.  I just don't see the explosiveness from the Cougars.   The Vikings will hoist up some big cat pelts in their long houses come Wednesday night.

GI's Pick: Nechako Valley by 36

Friday, 23 September

Rick Hansen @ Langley: Hansen has been literally on the cusp of victory versus two AAA programs to open up their season.  Langley served up a disapointing performance versus a rebuilding Pitt Meadows crew this past weekend in their opener.  Hansen will be all over the Saints with their balanced run-pass attack coming from multiple formations and motion sets.  This one won't be close.

GI's Pick: Hurricanes by 21

Belmont (Tier 2) @ John Barsby: Belmont dropped an egg on the scoreboard in a big loss versus a banged-up Ballenas crew this past Saturday.  Was it just "a bad day" for the Blue Bulldogs of Langford?  Hard to say.  Belmont is coming to play in "The Cage" this Friday against Barsby.  Barsby was exposed offensively early on by Langley last Friday and there are some big corrections to be made for them to be consistent this week.   The Dawg Defense has surrendered 7 points in eight quarters thus far in 2011.  When it is all said and done however, Barsby has been playing at a higher level than their visitors and is always tough at home.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 28

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2) @ Nanaimo District (Tier 2):  This is The Deuce's best match-up of the week.  It will be a statement game for the league and looks to be one hec of a physical contest.  Both squads have opened up with AA varsity competition and played quite competitively in those games.  Vanier really pounds the ball and found their "off-tackle" power running game vs Windsor on Friday.  Nanaimo District gave a tough Robert Bateman squad a big scare up in the Valley and has been playing their most physical brand of football in years.  Look for turnovers and the kicking game to play a decisive role in Nanaimo come Friday afternoon.

GI's Pick: Nanaimo District by 8

Correlieu @ Dutchess Park: The Condors of Dutchess Park are probably the number two team up in El Norte.  Correlieu is working to claw their way out of the basement.  This one will be a beat-down.

GI's Pick: Condors feast and win by 27 plus.

Prince George @ Kelley Road: The Polars got taken out behind the ol woodshed and got soundly thrashed by Nechako Valley last week.  There has got to be plenty of video material for the Kelley Road coaching staff to peruse and exploit for this weekend's clash of the two biggest schools up North.  If the Roadrunners are going to be a part of the playoff mix in 2011, this is a must win for them.

GI's Pick: Upset alert....Kelley Road by 1

Robert Bateman @ Hugh Boyd: Bateman rolls in with a 2-0 record vs Tier 2 competition and Boyd is 0-2 vs AAA opponents in week 1 and 2.  Last week's game for the Trojans was an example of bus legs in the first half after a long trip to the Interior.  Bateman survived a physical contest with late game heroics on a fumbled ball.  I thought the Wolves would play better, particularly as hosts against a team with a long travel day.  This one is on Boyd's home field-turf and will be fast.  Bateman has an edge in team speed and the Trojans in size.  This game will be characterized by the prep that goes into it by the respective coaching staffs.  It will become evident as to whom has found a defensive weakness that can be repeatedly exploited.  Bateman is up against a legit AA program this week.

GI's Pick: Boyd by 16

Pitt Meadows @ Windsor:  OK Pitt, I owe you an apology for underestimating you last week.    That said, you are not going to throw any long balls against Windsor as they are pretty disciplined with their deep thirds.  The Dukes play good ball under their 3 shell and teams that roll in thinking they are going to pick them apart underneath are going to throw some picks.  If Pitt can play balanced and base off of a power running game they may have some success.  I do not think that they are patient enough to do so.  The Duke offense is a throw-back to the late 90's early 2000's when they were in their spread offense hayday.    Why not?  The new field is built for what the mean green is running this year.  The passing game looks good and there is enough of a run game to cause some serious defensive contradictions to emerge.

GI's Pick: Windsor by 18

Abbottsford Collegiate @ Moscrop (Tier 2): Abbey is a bunch of tough nuts who went toe to toe with Barsby for two quarters last Friday.  Offensively, they are balanced and run their spread offense very intelligently making adjustments quickly to what the defense is giving them and then accurately exploiting what they have seen.  The defense is absolutely physical and will smack opposing running backs with fury and a visceral glee.  Love it!  Moscrop proved in week 1 that their knees buckle when they get hit.  Abbottsford easily matches them athlete for athlete on the edge.  This one will be nasty.

GI's Pick:  Abbey by 38

Clarence Fulton @ Omak (WA): This is an annual pilgrimage for the Maroons south of the border.  They never fare very well in the game,  but always emerge a better squad for it.  The Maroons are ascendent in 2011 as a program, but this said, they are still on the foothill of the Alp they intend to climb. 

GI's Pick: Omak by 40

San Franscisco (CA) @ Handsworth:  The Royals put some good points and numbers up in their tilt vs a playoff bound AAA Carson Graham squad last weekend.  Defensively, they cannot be happy with themselves however.  I think that the Royals will really step-up their defensive game on Friday and keep things much closer.  The offense will help a lot with some ball control and points scored.

GI's Pick: Royals lose by 13

Saturday, 24 September

Ballenas @ Centennial (AAA): The 2-0 Whalers who have been feasting on Tier 2 competition take a big step-up in their schedule when they travel to play a AAA Centennial squad who have been taking their licks against top flight US competition the past few weeks.  If the Whalers can play up to the potential of their wild and whacky spread offense they have an outside chance in this game.  If the contest turns into a run based shoving contest, it could get ugly.

GI's Pick: Centennial by 28

Norkam @ Frank Hurt (Tier 2): This will be a very balanced game on both sides of the ball.  The Hornets have not fared well against the run and their offense has been anemic.  Norkam on the other hand, is playing its first game of the season.  There has bound to be some kinks to be worked out for the Saints.  This game will be close, but the Hornets are a bit more battle tested.

GI's Pick: Frank Hurt by 3

STMC (AAA) @ Holy Cross:  Two teams that know each other very well.  Two teams on vastly different trajectories headed into week 3.  The game will be on mercy time by mid to late 2nd quarter.

GI's Pick: STM by 38

Mission @ South Delta:  Two teams with big dreams for 2011.  Mission has been playing top flight competition the past three weeks and South Delta has been building up to it with this game.  Mission just knocked off AAA's number 2 ranked WJ Mouat Hawks last Friday night.  The Roadrunner defense has been stellar since the get go and their offense is playing largely mistake free and highly explosive ball.  Mission dominates every match-up on either side of the ball.  They will take this game into overdrive in the second half.

GI's Pick: Mission by 28

Argyle (Tier 2) @ Mark Isfeld (Tier 2): This game will be close.  Both teams have been playing sloppy ball the past two weeks and both teams are searching for some momentum/success.  Argyle has the size and numbers headed in to the game.  Isfeld has experience and home field.  Look for the Ice to put together some decent second half drives that will push them over the top.

GI's Pick: Isfeld by 12

Eric Hamber (Tier 2) @ Edward Milne (Tier 2): Milne has served notice that they are a playoff contender and that they can run the football consistently.  Hamber has the "new team blues" as they are going through the growing pains that come with inexperience and teaching the game to brand new players in the 11th and 12th grades.  Been there back in the day!  Some advice to Hamber, "Find a couple things you think you can do well and hang your hat on em.  Celebrate all your little successes along the way and remember to compete against yourselves as opposed to opponents who are largely beyond your control."  It will get better for you in the long-run.

GI's Pick: Milne pounds their way to a victory margin of 30 plus points.

Howe Sound (Tier 2) @ Timberline (Tier 2):  OK Sounders, I sure had to stomache the taste of eating crowe after your stellar performance against a decent Valleyview squad last weekend.  I am not convinced that you are "all that" however and you are going to get seriously shelled by Timberline via the air.  Your best hope is to pound the rock and keep their offensive circus off of the field. Timberline has some of its traditional size and a very stubborn ol Defensive Coordinator to go with it.  Bad dreams for the Sounders.

GI's Pick: Air Wolves by 14

Valleyview @ Vernon: Word has it that the Panthers are much improved over last year and are working to upset perrenial powers suck as Fulton and OKM this season.  Best not to overlook a Valleyview group that is beginning to have a great season of their own in 2011.  Valleyview has put in a good September thus far and the game savy they have accrued in weeks 1 and 2 will be at their side as they square off with the Panthers.  Look for turnovers and Vernon miscues handling the ball to play a big role during this game.

GI's Pick:  Valleyview by 12

West Vancouver (AAA) @ Seaquam:  West Vancouver had better have a good point man as I believe they are headed into an ambush.  A two touchdown win vs a Handsworth squad trying to find its feet in the season opener is a world away from the slobber-knocker that awaits on Saturday.  Seaquam has the size and speed to go toe-to-toe with anything West Van brings at em and the SeaHawks have found some serious momentum coming out of the Kelowna game.  I am not saying that this game will be a blowout, but it is surely going to be a much tougher contest than week 1.   Look for a few Seaquam wrinkles via formation and the air to manifest themselves.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 9

Gridiron's Picks Week 2

Week 1 Recap

Mission was again impressive as they rolled to victory over Seaquam in a game that was never in doubt.  Barsby chewed up Holy Cross on the ground and served up some big defensive licks en route to a shutout performance over the visiting Crusaders.  Ballenas came back from a 20-19 deficit in a phyrric victory over Nanaimo District and Bateman flat out steamrolled Moscrop in their season opener.  South Delta's Sundevils took AAA New Westminster to the mat in a narrow loss that future opponents had better file in the "These guys are dangerous" file.  The Trojans of Hugh Boyd played tough while coming up short vs emerging AAA contender Lord Tweedsmuir and Handsworth sputtered vs AAA West Vancouver.  Up in the interior, Valleyview served notice that it is going to be a force to reckon with when conference play begins and up North, it is beginning to look like a two team race for first place between Nechako Valley and Prince George.  Week two is going to be fun as things continue to develop.


GI's AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. South Delta
4. Robert Bateman
5. Seaquam

GI's Tier 2 Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Belmont
3. G.P. Vanier
4. Moscrop
5. Frank Hurt

GI's Week Two Picks

Thursday, 15 September

Nechako Valley @ Prince George: In week one Nechako Valley looked tight on defence shutting down Kelly Road  and creating 8 turnover (3 Int and 5 fumbles). The Vikings offence will need to be able to capitalize on opportunities in week two as they were in the red zone six times and only came away with two touchdowns. Prince George looked good in their first game taking advantage of an inexperienced Correlieu team that missed some easy tackles. The Polars will have to find their passing game if they want to have success against the athletic Vikings defence. Nechako Valley should take this one with deeper talent and more experience in the trenches.

El Norte's Pick: Nechako Valley by 21

Friday, 16 September

John Barsby @ Abbottsford Collegiate:  Barsby put together some good defensive numbers and the Dawg offense showed flashes of its potential en route to blanking Holy Cross 36-0 last Friday.  Abby is playing its season opener in this tilt.  Barsby has to get-up at 5 AM in order to assemble and catch to 0620 ferry across the moat to be on time for the 12 PM kick-off at Memorial stadium.  The first quarter should be interesting with a 20% chance of stray sleep-walkers being sighted at or near the stadium.  Abbottsford is surely a team on the rise with big, physical players up front and a forward leaning power running game behind them.  Play action pass is a concern for the Dawg defenders as is the Abbottsford QB outside of the pocket.  I like Barsby's special teams as a difference maker in this contest along with their buzz saw offensive assault.  So far this year the defense has been perfect in the points against category.  Could be a fun game to watch.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 20

Mt. Boucherie (AAA)  @ Rick Hansen:  This year's Hansen squad is an improvement over the 2010 edition and they played a good tough game vs Marriot last weekend.  That said, Mt. Boucherie has a stronger roster and has consistently demonstrated themselves to be an upper-mid level AAA contender in the Interior.  Look for the Bears to lean on some heavy duty power running throughout the contest en route to a physically satisfying road victory.

GI's Pick: Mt. Boucherie by 8

South Delta @ Earl Marriot (AAA):  Surprisingly close score for the Sundevils last week as they travelled to New Westminster.  Marriot is coming off of an emotional and confidence building win versus Rick Hansen in week one. I think that the Sundevils are going to take another big step forward this weekend vs the Mariners as their passing game begins to click and their defense picks-up where they left off vs the run happy Hyaks.  Marriot may have turned a corner somewhat, but certainly not at a right angle just yet.

GI's Pick: South Delta by 12

Holy Cross @ Lord Tweedsmuir: The Crusaders are smarting from their opener at John Barsby and will be a better team headed into this week's tilt vs LT.  The Panthers really bealieve that 2011 is their year and are seeking to run the table in pre-season at the very least.  HC is going to run a lot of power and this feeds right into the strength of the Panther defense.  LT does a great job of preparing for opponents week by week and they are not going to get surprised come Friday.  The balanced Panther offense is going to find some cracks in the Crusader defensive castle so-to-speak that will lead to some big plays on offense.

GI's Pick: LT by 24

Hugh Boyd @ Rutland (AAA):  Boyd's long travel day will be rewarded with the first W of the season as they complete their home and home with Rutland.  A good performance vs the much stronger Lord Tweedsmuir Panthers last weekend is a great building block for the Trojans in their quest for improvement.  The score in this game will widen as the clock winds down.

GI's Pick: Boyd by 23

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2) @ Windsor: Vanier is going to have the athletes, the size and the overall speed in this contest by a wide and clear margin.  Windsor knows how to defend against power running games and their cover three is about as air tight as it gets.  Look for Vanier's big back to impress early, but when the Dukes dial in on the two or three favorite plays of the Towhee offense, he will get gang tackled the rest of the day.  Defensively, the Dukes will come up with some picks and will put their offense on a short field several times.  The Duke offense will hit Vanier "where they aint" and trap the hec out of the defensive front.

GI's Pick: Windsor by 22

Timberline @ Eric Hamber: Timberline is not going to roll into town with much more than twenty bodies at the outside.  The kids that suit up however, will be good players and Hamber will not know what hit them when the Wolves get to chucking the ball around the field.  Look for a very big Timberline offensive output in this one.

GI's Pick: Timberline by 40

Mark Isfeld (Tier 2) @ Moscrop (Tier 2): Isfeld travels to play a seriously tenderized Moscrop team this Friday.  If the Ice can put together a physical performance the Panthers may crumble as the game progresses.  It remains to be seen what Isfeld is all about in 2011 having elected to skip spring football.  Moscrop has played their toughest game of the season and things can only get better from here if they can put a good week of practice together.

GI's Pick: Moscrop by 7

Valleyview @ Howe Sound Tier 2): Valleyview just knocked off an AAA opponent.  Howe Sound is green as grass.  This game by any measure will not be close.  Howe Sound's biggest advantage will come from their sloppy play making the game so disjointed that the Vikings never get into a groove.

GI's Pick: Valleyview by 30 plus.

Nanaimo District (Tier 2) @ Robert Bateman:  Bateman blew the doors off of a very outmatched Moscrop squad last week with the game called mid third quarter and the Wolves up by 40 or so.  Nanaimo District was a couple broken plays away from possibly upsetting Ballenas in their opener.  The Bateman roster and power running game are going to be a terrific test for their Island guests on Friday afternoon.  Nanaimo District can play some good ball however, so the score will not be as lopsided as some may think.  Bateman is the real deal and will be the beneficiary of a home game vs an opponent who has travelled for 4 hours.  This game will be close at half-time and then will open up.

GI's Pick: Bateman by 26 

Pitt Meadows @ Langley: The Marauders are in a total re-build this year.  Langley is stronger than it has ever been.  Look for the big, physical Saints to run a lot of power right at the Marauder defense.  This game will get ugly by the mid third quarter.

GI's Pick: Langley by 30

Seaquam @ Kelowna (AAA): Kelowna and Seaquam know each other very, very well as the coaching staff are long-time friends and these two squads have made it an annual habit to square off against one another in pre-season.  I think the Owls turned a page offensively as they came roaring back to erase a large deficit on the scoreboard vs Carson last week narrowly losing that game.  Seaquam played Mission tough throughout and will also be playing better ball second time around.  I think that the Owls are a bit ahead in terms of offensive execution heading into this game and will not find themselve overly surprised by the SeaHawk attack.

GI's Pick: Kelowna by 7

Mission @ WJ Mouat (AAA): This will be a defining game for Mission as they cross the valley to tangle with arguably the second best team in AAA.  Size and speed are equally matched as are tangibles such as experience and strength of schedule to date.  Mission's defense is coming off of a big performance and the Mouat tilt vs Mt. Douglas gives the Roadrunner staff plenty of material to work with as the Hawks gave up big points.  Coach Watrin was keeping his offensive cards close to the vest vs Seaquam too.  These two programs are know for offense in particular.  I think however, it will be the respective defenses that are going to define who wins and loses.

GI's Pick: Mission by 2 Yep, you heard it here first.

College Heights @ Correlieu:  Neither team looked polished in week one, but both showed some signs of life. College Heights wasn't able to contain the speed that Duchess Park brought to the field in their opener, but will have a better match up this week as they will be the more athletic team. If the Cougars can find their offensive leaders, this one could be over early. Correlieu's ability to make key plays in their opener lends some hope that if they can find a way to come together as a defence, they could walk away with a win.

El Norte's Pick: College Heights by 14

Kelley Road @ Dutchess Park: The tale of the tape would say these are teams headed in opposite directions.   Kelly Road with no points in its first two games is searching for that spark they had on offence last season.  Dutchess Park looked explosive with their team speed ripping apart College Heights in last week's game. Both of these squads played in zero week so they ought to start to hit their stride in week two.  Both teams are very athletic with Kelly Road bringing a lot of physicality on every play, but they may not have the answers for the well rounded offence of the Condors.

El Norte's Pick:  Dutchess Park by 7

Saturday, September 17th

Handsworth @ Carson Graham (AAA): The 2011 edition of the Buchannan Bowl looks to be a pretty good game looking at last week's results for the Royals and Eagles respectively.  Handsworth, a notorious slow starter, ought to improve on their collective performance vs West Van in week 1 while the Eagles are surely on a high after coming out on top of a shootout with Kelowna.  Look for the Eagles to exert their size and speed advantage to full effect in this game.

GI's Pick: Carson by 17

Belmont (Tier 2) @ Ballenas: In terms of size and athleticism these two teams are very evenly matched.  The Whalers however, have a lot more time invested in their offensive attack than the Bulldogs and execute to a much higher level.  There is also the psychological hurdle for the Belmont group who have never come out on top in this contest.  The wilcard on Saturday is going to be the health of Ballenas.  They got royally chewed up by Nanaimo District last Friday and will be using a lot of smoke and mirrors to get by.  Look for Ballenas to air up the ball a whole bunch and move it on the ground East-West with standout receiver Dustin Rodriguez.  If Belmont can lock down on him and keep the Whaler QB in the pocket, we could have a bit of a game on our hands.

GI's Pick: Whalers by 23

Edward Milne (Tier 2) @ Frank Hurt (Tier 2):  Milne has a pretty good little squad on their hands in 2011.  Frank Hurt is featuring a wide open attack that could be feast or famine depending on the Wolverine secondary's ability to defend the vertical routes.  Milne has a decent power running game to go with a well constructed play-action passing attack.

GI's Pick: Milne in an "upset" by 8

Gridiron's Week 0 Week/Week 1 Predictions

Week 1 grudge match has Seaquam looking for redemption!

GI's AA Top Five

1. Mission

2. John Barsby

3. Seaquam

4. Handsworth

5. Holy Cross

GI's Tier 2 Top Five

1. Belmont
2. G.P. Vanier

3. Nanaimo District

4. Frank Hurt
5. Moscrop

Zero Week

Friday, 2 Sept.

South Delta vs Dutchess Park:  I've got to take South Delta in this one.  Way to much fire power offensively for the Condors to handle and a dominant SunDevil defensive line will make itself felt.

GI's Pick: Sundevils by 46

Kelley Road vs Salmon Arm: Salmon Arm is in a rebuild and is inserting a new offense for 2011.  Kelley Road is the strongest it has been in years with a very veteren crew taking the field.  Look for a closer score than many may think although I believe that the Golds of Salmon Arm are still ahead developmentally.

GI's Pick: Salmon Arm by 18

Week 1

Friday, 9 Sept.

Rick Hansen @ Earl Marriot (AAA): A struggling yet plucky Marriot squad hosts the rebuilding Hurricanes.  This game means a lot more to the Mariners than it does to the Hurricanes in terms of confidence building and setting the tone for the season.  If Marriot has a couple big play athletes that get loose on the Hurricane defense, this becomes a shoot out of a game. I'm thinking there are a couple in the mix. Hansen will spread the ball around very well and be opportunistic offensivley.  The Hurrican special teams units will factor in as well.

GI's Pick: Hansen by 6 

Moscrop (Tier 2) @ Robert Bateman:  Moscrop looks to be a force in Tier 2. Bateman has high expectations for their first year of AA.  These teams played tough games against one another last season.  Moscrop is going to find out the hard way in this game what the value of having a JV squad last year is all about.  Both squads will feature wide open offensive attacks and the defenses will have their work cut out for themselves from the first whistle.  Batemen however, has a decisive advantage in team speed, size and overall athleticism.  Good opening week game for Moscrop in terms of team development.  Moscrop will have their chests puffed out exiting the stadium and headed into week 2 prep.

GI's Pick: Bateman by 34

Ballenas @ Nanaimo District (Tier 2): These two squads have played some epic JV games the past two years.  The rosters know one another well and there is a hunger to get smackin that is mutual.  Ballenas goes into the game with a size and speed advantage.  The Whalers are also very polished offensively with a wide-open run/pass attack that forces defenses to defend every square inch of the field.  Nanaimo District is going to be very, very challenged to keep pace with the high flying Whalers.  The Islanders are an unknown coming out of Spring Ball.  I like their physicality and attitude.  If this group is healthy headed into the game, who knows what they can deliver.  Preventing Ballenas from making the big-play and turning the game into a slug festival is absolutely critical for the Islanders to have a chance.  Ball control and not turning it over is a co-equal in terms of winning this game  The body of off-season work by the Whaler offense is going to be a decisive factor. The game is a good choice for the NDSS crew in terms of competing against top flight competition. 

GI's Pick: Ballenas by 28

South Kamloops @ Windsor: The Dukes are going to respond to last June's pummeling at the hands of Mission with a very impressive August Camp and opening game performance.  There are no illusions of grandeur amongst the green and gold and the hard-work/underdog attitude will permeate the preparation that goes into this contest.  SKS is going to rely on a big back and a predictable slow developing offense early on.  I think the Dukes are going to find ways of exploiting what is given to them while jumping all over the Titan offense.

GI's Pick: Dukes by 17

Rutland (AAA) @ Valleyview: Good pick for Valleyview to start their season.  Rutland will have some horses to be sure, but have weathered a couple consecutive tough seasons heading into this tilt.  It will be interesting to see if the Voodoo have the relentless mentality of a winning squad or if they are going to play football tic-tac-toe hoping they are left holding the chalk last.  Valleyview has put together some quality seasons of late and will bring that continuity into their opening game.  This will be a close contest that comes down to turnovers and the ability to prevent the big play.

GI's Pick: Valleyview by 2

Holy Cross @ John Barsby: Tough to tell what to expect in this game.  Both squads bring an extremely physical brand of play on to the field and the rosters match up pretty darn equally in terms of size and speed.  The coaching staffs are not very familiar with one another and the respective rosters have never played each other.  What we have here is a game where turnovers and eliminating the big play could never be more important.  The ability of both defensive coordinators to rapidly adapt to what is being thrown their way will be crucial as the game develops.  I also look for special teams units to be difference makers.  This one could go down to the wire.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 1

Clarence Fulton @ Mt. Boucherie (AAA):  I like this match-up for a lot of reasons.  Firstly, both of these programs are quality run through and through with some great historical rivalry.  Mt. Boucherie is a tough opponent for the Maroons and this will surely get folks oriented in terms of what needs work headed into week 2 and beyond.  The Bears have the horses in this tilt and the score will reflect this as the game plays out.  Though this is going to be a loss for Fulton on the scoreboard, it is going to be a great step along the road to developing a squad that eventually competes for the divisional title come October/November.

GI's Pick: Mt. Boucherie by 18

Lord Tweedsmuir (AAA) @ Hugh Boyd:  The Panthers and Trojans have a great history of hard fought, competitive games versus one another dating back to LT's arrival at AA ball in 2004.  At present, Boyd is ascendent and there is talk out there in football circles that LT could be an AAA contender in 2011.  Looking at the respective rosters, there is a lot of even match-ups in key positions.  The coaching and player experience also stack-up very evenly.  This game will be a gem.  There will be a lot of physical play and the outcome will be decided by a couple of explosive plays.  I think LT has a couple more in their kit than Boyd.

GI's Pick: LT by 14

South Delta @ New Westminster:  This has become a good pre-season rivalry game for both squads in recent years. This year's tilt will be very telling as we look at the direction that both teams are heading.  The Hyaks are looking to rejoin the top five in AAA and S. Delta has similar intentions at AA.  My take is that the SunDevils are going to be hard pressed to slow down the New West offensive attack, particularly on the ground.  The Hyaks will likely have an easier time defending South Delta's precision passing game.   Look for some SunDevil trick plays to be unleased in an attempt to capture momentum during the first or second quarter.  It won't be enough.

GI's Pick: New Westminster by 28

Eric Hamber @ Mark Isfeld: Hamber's first varsity game in history will be played at the always tough venue of Bill Moore Park in Courtenay vs the veteren Mark Isfeld Ice.  Isfeld held off of spring ball this year to get some rugby on the go.  Scheme wise this will hurt them a bit, but there will be a toughness factor and some conditioning that plays into their favor as a result.  A long trip and inexperience will be too much for the young Hamber squad to overcome.  The trip however will certainly serve as a team builder and go a long ways towards building some familiarity with the provincial football mileau.

GI's Pick: Isfeld by 20

Frank Hurt @ G.P. Vanier: The defending champs are in tough with this trip.  Vanier is big, strong, fast and rife with experience.  This year could very well belong to the Towhees and what better way to start than with a home game vs a provincially ranked program.  Look for Hurt to unveil a wide open spread attack offensively and Vanier to come out smashmouth with the power game they are built for.  Look for Vanier to get in rhythm early.

GI's Pick: Vanier by 16

Kelly Road vs Nechako Valley: Two of the more veteran and savy squads meet in week 1. Alot of skill on both teams with Nechako Valley deep on defence and Kelly Road chalk full of offensive weaponry.  It should be an interesting match up to see who is ready in week 1. Kelly Road  will have a road exhibition game against Salmon Arm under their belt, but Nechako Valley will likely come out on top with a team that has played together for years and has compiled a couple community 9-man titles.

GI's Pick: Nechako Valley by 14

Prince George vs Correlieu: The two biggest schoosl in El Norte meet for their respective week one openers. The similarity ends here and when it comes to football , it will be no contest. Prince George is deep with returning talent from their conference title last season and should dominate the young re-building squad from Quesnel.

GI's Pick: Prince George by 35

Duchess Park vs College Heights: At face value,Duchess Park would seem to be the favorite on paper with some great veteren offensive talent rolling into the game. This game however,  will in all probability be a close one because of College Heights commitment to defence and a grinding, clock munching style of offence.  At game's end, the Condors of Dutchess Park should come out on top, but in a closer game then they find comfortable playing.

GI's Pick: Dutchess Park by 6

Saturday 10 Sept.

West Vancouver (AAA) at Handsworth:  There was a time not so long ago when West Vancouver would clean house in this game.  That is clearly not the case now and I look for the most competitive Handsworth Squad since 2007 to dominate every phase of this game. 

GI's Pick: Handsworth by 24

Seaquam @ Mission:  Want a preview of a potential 2011 playoff match-up?  Here it is.  Easily one of the biggest games in September, the SeaHawks and Roadrunners are going to get after it on Saturday afternoon!  Mission is going to be extremely tough for the September version of the Seaquam squad to handle.  I think that the complete SeaHawk attack won't be ready until October whereas the Roadrunners, historically one of the fastest starting teams in AA will be rolling on all cylinders.  Seaquam's power running game will face trouble as Mission has bigger and faster bodies to go toe to toe with it.  The Mission offensive attack, its explosiveness and its diversity will carry the day for the big green.  Late scores on big plays will factor in with this re-match of last November's classic quarter-final game.

GI's Pick: Mission by  20

Ranking The Deuce 2011

The Deuce Year Four

Tier 2 Varsity, AKA "The Deuce" is really coming along entering year 4.  The conferences are set, the schedule is up, and the pre-season is just around the corner.  Last year the league parity was outstanding and I believe that 2011 will pick-up where its predecessor left off in that regard.  There are new programs this year to compete with the league's veteren core.  One thing that really impresses me is that once struggling programs have developed a lot of stability and have grown roots in this league.  New, big school programs are getting their first year of varsity play here and as we witnessed with Robert Batemen, have transitioned up the food chain to take their place in the mix.  With several years under its belt, The Deuce has developed relationships and comraderie amongst its member programs and that has also helped to become fertile program building ground.  This group is demonstrating solid health.  Good!  More football is great football!!

Ranking The Deuce

Island Conference

1. Belmont: Last year's Island Champs and provincial runner-up is reloading for another run at the Ackles Cup.  Next year is AAA for the Bulldogs and there is an air of excitement about the program headed into September's crucible.  Belmont plays an exceptionally tough exhibition schedule that begins with AA Ballenas on the road followed up with AA John Barsby again on the road and then cross-town rival AAA powerhouse Mt. Douglas.  The battle hardened survivors ought to cut a swathe through their league schedule in October/November.  The key to this team's success will be discipline throughout the ranks.  Anything less than a very focused approach to the game will result in a loss in the big games of November/December. 

2. G.P. Vanier: This team has it all!  Numbers, size and speed that are unrivalled in Tier 2.  In particular, the best running back in the league wears Towhee Green and White.  The achilles heal across the past three years for Vanier is that they get out-finessed by the better offensive minds in the league.  If Vanier really nails down their fundamental play up front and gets an answer to teams who can spread the ball around, look-out. These guys are a good pick to go all the way in 2011.

3. Timberline: The Wolves are sitting precariously at number three.  These guys could fall off and tumble lower this year or conversely, they could make another run not only at the conference title, but for the Ackles Cup.  Coaching is not the problem here, numbers are.  If the athletes come out for ball, look for the Wolves to be back at their aerial ways this season.  Key for the Wolves is the development of a solid offensive line.  The backfield and receivers are in place and getting the big fellas up front out for ball is of the highest priority.  If this mission gets accomplished,  nobody in the league can chuck the rock like Timberline.

4. Edward Milne: Football is really taking off in the town of Sooke.  Milne fielded a very competitive squad in 2010 and returns a solid core of players for the 2011 season.  This could be a breakout year for the Wolverines.  A big test comes early versus the Deuce's 2010 champs Frank Hurt in week 1.  Week four has a visit to AA John Barsby as the final tune-up before a huge contest versus arch-rival Belmont.  I think that this team is going to look back on the coming season when it is all said and done with fond memories.  Darkhorse on the Island right here.

5. Mark Isfeld: This is a tough squad that could very easily finish in the top three of the division.  Coach Sutton does an admirable job with limited help at his side each and every year.  A key indicator of success is how many players return to play each year and he gets alot of em back!  The Ice need to replace a good offensive backfield lost to graduation this past spring and the defense is going to have to pick-up the slack until the offense finds its feet.  Pre-season is a good mix of opponents who will bring out Isfeld's best.  Any thing better than a 2-2 September means these guys are are going to be serious playoff contenders. 

6. Gulf Islands: The Scorpions play a very scrappy brand of football and in years where their numbers are up, they can be very dangerous when overlooked.  Look for a fast back and some great misdirection from these guys.  Defensively, this group tackles very well and does a great job of defending the perimeter.

Western Conference

1. Nanaimo District: A group of flat out tough guys come up from last year's JV squad to join a very good group of varsity vets in 2011.  The Islanders have record numbers out for their varsity and there is a tangible buzz about this season's prospects amongst the players and coaches alike.  I like this team's toughness, speed and football smarts. Opening games versus AA Ballenas and AA South Kamloops will prepare this group well for divisional tilts to follow.  Nanaimo District has been a provincial semi-finalist two years in a row and this may very well be their break through year.

2. Frank Hurt:  There has been a lot of sandbagging going on in terms of how well the defending champions figure to do in 2011.  This flys in the face of the hard-work that has been done during the winter/spring, the calibre of the returning players and the momentum this large school has coming off of a championship.  The Hornets are a legitimate threat to repeat in 2011 assuming the hard work continues and the players buy in.  Offensively, this crew will be playing more out of a pistol look and stretching the field using fly/jet sweeps.  The biggest challenge will be getting the offensive line up to speed.  Defensively, look for the heat to come early and often from the opportunistic defenders.  Opponents who buy into "rebuild" are in for a shocker.   

3. Moscrop: This is a program on the rise.  With the establishment of a JV squad this year, the quality of varsity play in 2012 is set to explode.  This year's varsity Panthers are going to be switching to a more wide open attack offensively.  Folks can expect size and physicality on the defensive side as well as improved overall pass defense.  It is going to be very important for the Panther defense to give the offense time to develop.  I think the September exhibition weeks are going to be a good seguay into October's league tilts.  If the offense can keep the heat off of their quarterback and have enough run to balance their attack, theyse guys can challenge for the Ackles Cup. 

4. Argyle: This is a very big school loaded with athletes out for its very first year of JV and Varsity ball.  If the coaching staff is deep and if the coaching staff is patient enough to rep up fundamentals while keeping schemes simple, this team could be a player come October.  A playoff seed is not out of the realm of possibility.

5. Eric Hamber: With a year of JV ball under their belts, Hamber's varsity crew will have some leadership on board as they kick-off their first year of ball at the more senior level.  The keys to success are very similar to what I described with Argyle.  I am going to be very interested in the outcome of the September tilts vs Mark Isfeld and Timberline.  A victory or even close games would be a definite sign of good things to come.

6. Howe Sound: The potential always exists for the Sounders to rattle cages at the top of the divisional heap.  There are great athletes in the school and more and more of them it seems are coming out for football.  There is a new coaching staff at the helm this year so it will be a couple of weeks into September when we see which direction they are leading the program.  Spring ball showed that there is much work ahead. 

GI's Pre-Season Top Five

The Hornets look to swarm back to the Ackles Cup in 2011!

1. Belmont

2. G.P. Vanier

3. Nanaimo District

4. Frank Hurt

5. Moscrop

2011 AA Varsity Pre-Season Preview

2011 Here We Go!

Lets Get It On!

It's August, high summer and you can feel a tiny Autumn tinge in the early morning cool. It's been way too long since the last snap of ball and it is time to pull out GI's Crystal Ball to see how things are going to shake down in BC's biggest Varsity tier of play.  Folks have been working hard and the table is now set for a stellar season ahead. 

Ranking The Conferences 2011

#1 Western AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order Of Finish

1. John Barsby

2. Handsworth

3. South Delta

4. Ballenas

5. Windsor

The top four in this division are virtually interchangeable.  Barsby and Handsworth, last year's finalists, have a week six rematch at the Royals home dirt that will not only be a slobber-knocker, but will be huge in the divisional playoff race.  The Dawgs and Royals return a solid veteren core and welcome impressive arrivals from their JV ranks.  South Delta has been chomping at the bit to get 2011 rolling.  The Sundevils will be strong up-front and have a superb cast of backs and receivers.  Ballenas is surely in an "up-year" with last year's eleventh grade having been the core of their 2010 squad and welcoming a BC semi-finalist group of 10's into the varsity fold.  There is now the traditional depth and size on the Whaler Varsity that was conspicuously absent in 09 and 10.  Bottom line in "The West", a team that fails to prepare on any given week could be walking home with their head down kicking rocks up the street in short order.  Windsor is in the middle of a rebuild but you cannot ever, ever count one of Coach Schuman's squads out of the mix.  The Dukes will improve week to week as the early season unfolds and will be very dangerous at home in the late weeks.  The green and yellow are a long-shot for a playoff seed, but don't count em out.

#2 Southern AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Seaquam

2. Holy Cross

3. Hugh Boyd

4. Langley

Dang, this group is going to have a whole lot of parity when the season is all said and done. In fact, it is my belief that the plus-minus tie breaker system is going to be called into use at the conclusion of regular season play in early November. I like Seaquam to finish top rail on the fence because they have size up-front and a big back.  When Seaquam has this combination, they play in their smashmouth comfort zone.  This frees them up to be very creative offensively in big games with opponents who overcompensate for the downhill running attack.  Holy Cross could very well come out on top of "The South" in 2011.  The Crusaders played tough across their 2010 schedule and have numbers out for their varsity in excess of 45.  In addition, this year's version has re-assembled one of its better coaching staffs in years to mould the talent at hand into a gridiron juggernaut.  AA football has surely gotten a lot better with the arrival of the Crusaders to its ranks.  Huge Boyd is Back!  If the Trojans have been doing anything this past eight months, they have been sitting at the supper table and cruising the local buffet circuit.  All joking aside, a great group of JV's have moved up to augment the better half of last years varsity squad.  There is a hunger for success withing both groups and the chemistry/athletic mix exists for a top knotch squad in 2011.  Hugh Boyd has a history of playing in tough conferences and have been very successful winning big games when the athletic decks are stacked evenly.  There is a very good chance that they can split their divisional games with Seaquam and Holy Cross.  Though projected last in their division, Langley cannot be completely discounted this Fall.  This program in now mature and the roster stacks up in terms of numbers, size and athleticism with their divisional peers.  There is a tipping point mentally where a program feels it can and should win consistently.  I think that September is make or break for this group in terms of gaining the belief and swagger to go knock the jock off of the divisional competition.  From a personal perspective, it would warm this ol heart to see the Saints turn the corner in 2011.

#3 Eastern AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Mission

2. Robert Bateman

3. Rick Hansen

4. Abbottsford Collegiate

5. Pitt Meadows

This division is a two team race and even then, I've got to call out Mission as the clear favorite to secure the number one seed headed into the post-season dance.  Having Robert Bateman in the mix instantly makes the Roadrunners better as they are going to be pushed hard by the newcomers.  On paper, it is very possible that Mission and Bateman have the 1-2 rosters in BC in terms of size and athleticism.  The Friday, 28 October tilt between the two is going to be nuts.   Played at 1 PM on Bateman's dirt with the whole dang school out to watch, this could easily be the game of the year.  Plan to see this one if you can!  The second tier in this division consists of Rick Hansen and Abbottsford Collegiate.  Hansen has the edge by virtue of a deeper set of "skill positions" and a more dynamic offensive attack.  I like the way that Abbottsford has been putting things together though and they pound the rock very well.  Defensively, the red and black are a reflection of their offensive philosophy and this means they can get into nasty physical contests with teams that cannot get it done via the air.  Hansen can throw.  Weather and playing surface could be all important when these two squads meet.  Pitt Meadows graduated the majority of its talent after last year's playoff run.  The cupboards are pretty empty for the Marauders such as I can tell unless they have done a bang-up job of in-school recruiting this past eight months.  Staying alive and keeping their religion for seasons ahead may be a challenging, yet realistic goal in 2011. 

#4 Okanagen AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Clarence Fulton

2. Norkam

3. Valleyview

4. OKM

5. South Kamloops

6. Kalmalka

7. Vernon

8. Mt. Baker

It was eleven years ago the last time an Interior collossus emerged on the playoff scene.  Fulton was flat out dominant with back-to-back semi-final appearances in 99-2000.  In 1999 John Pedersen, the predecessor of today's South Kamloops HS was a monster squad as well, taking the eventual Delta HS championship squad to the mat in a hard fought semi-final tilt.  Since those glory days alot of evolution has taken place in the Interior.  The 2011 alignments are darn near the same they were back then for the first time in a decade.  Many of the same dynamics are now in play and this gives the smashmouth guys in sagebrush country some serious cause for hope.  I believe the games are going to be very, very competitive and the level of play will now begin to rise!

Looking at the athletic breakdown in terms of roster maturity and returning starters, this is going to be a season of parity amongst the top five or so teams.  Fulton will be top of the heap with a large and talented class rising from the JV ranks.  They are going to have to play lights-out to realize their potential as Valleyview returns seven of the big fellas up front and a complete backfield sans quarterback.  Norkam, much like the Maroons will have a big group of experienced 11's as well.  OKM is in a rebuild this year, but they have shown much consistency in terms of fielding highly competitive squads the past six years.  South Kamloops, a very big school, has a big back, but needs to find a supporting cast to compliment him.  Look for Kalmalka to be the dark horse in this division and one of the favorites in 2012.  Mt. Baker is a bit of an unknown.  Proximity to Idaho and Montana  should be a natural plus for these guys if they built in a set of yearly home and home with the programs south of the 49th. 

Okanagen-Interior Insider's Report

1. Kal : Athletic and well coached. Have won the last two JV titles in the Interior.

2. South Kam: Perennial Interior power. Dropped to AA, making them the biggest school in the conference by far.

3. Vernon : Could the toughest , hardest hitting team in the Interior this year.

4. Valleyview: Option offense tough to defend, always prepared and ready.

5. Fulton: Defending champs are rebuilding

6. Nor Kam: Physical team that is always close.

7. OKM : Will be lead by Grade 11's, fast and wide open.

8. Mount Baker: Kootenay school still in growing stages.

Key Dates:

Sept. 24 South Kam at Kal...the best 2 teams in the conference meet early!

Oct. 1 Vernon at Fulton. The battle of Vernon, VSS always plays Fulton tough.

Oct. 14 Nor Kam at Valleyview : Battle of Kamloops, bragging rights on the line.

Oct. 15 OKM at Mt. Baker: OKM makes the long trek to the Kootenays in a game filled with offense.

Nov. 4 South Kam at Valleyview will help decide the league title.

Nov. 5 Fulton at Kal also will decide the league title. Fulton has held the city championship of Vernon 13 straight years, since 1999. Could be the year they give it up.

#5 AA North

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Kelley Road

2. Prince George

3. Nechako Valley

4. Dutchess Park

5. Correlieu

6. College Heights

El Norte has been working out amazingly well the past few years in terms of divisional parity, rivalry and program health.  This to me is the year that the calibre of play begins to seriously accellerate.  JV squads are being established and the top four teams are going to be picking-up where they left off last year.  All four return the majority of their players and the parity is going to lead to innovative coaching all round.  Kelley Road and PG are huge schools and the beef on the roster will be representative.  The most efficient squad in terms of talent development is Nechako Valley who are welcoming a group of 9 man BC community champs to the fold.  Dutchess Park was very young last year and will be much improved along with Quenel's Correlieu HS who has similar age and experience demographics.  The coaching staff at College Heights has their work cut out for them as they took huge graduation hits this spring. 

There is a true air of football excitement up North with not only high school ball taking off, but a serious attempt at a BCFC franchise in the making.  The required facility upgrade in terms of building a central artificial playing surface would surely benefit all.   Also, in the mid to long-term, a lot of football people would likely stay in town and a pool of young coaching talent would begin to emerge as players transition from BCFC competition.  Key for the whole group however, is to match their human resources with their growth and aspirations so as to avoid implosion. 

Four things I'd love to see happen in the next couple of years in terms of expansion in the North: 1) Program in Williams Lake 2) Program in 100 Mile House 3) Program in Dawson Creek 4) Program in Ft. St. John.

As far as playoffs go, it would be huge to see a North division squad win a first round playoff victory.  Huge I say, but not likely in 2011.  With a year of JV feeder squads under their belts, 2012 is a distinct possibility. 

Insider report on El Norte:

1. Nechako Valley Vikings

After finishing as runners up in the northern finals and getting a taste of the road in the BC High School playoffs this could be a breakout year for the Vikings. They have the pieces on offence with Kyle Varley (RB) running the ball really well at off season camps and Connor Nielsen (QB) looks ready to have a breakout season. The only thing that might slow down this offence is its lack of size on the offensive line, but their depth of good athletes will allow them to make plays and be a very explosive offence if they get past the line pf schrimage. On Defence, Hudson Schneider (S) will lead the Vikings who always seem to have a fast physical crew and would expect to see the same again this season. This group of players have played together and have had success in community  so look for them to have succes again this season.

2. Kelly Road Roadrunners

One year older for a very young team last season, they went through the growing pains of a young team and look poised to make some noise this season. The Roadrunners may have the best offensive attack with the ability to run the ball with Tyler Roth (RB) for hard yards or put the ball in the air with Zach Zapporrozan-Jones (QB), Devin Readman (WR) and Devon Gurney (WR). On defence Travis Shields (DL) will anchor a big, strong defensive unit for the runners. Inexperience could still come back to bite this team in close games.

3. Duchess Park Condors

Duchess Park looked like a front runner to be the top team this year with their multi threat offence from last season. If they can find someone who can fill the hole left with the departure of Montell Lindgren (WR) then they should be able to get their aerial game going again with Rylan Matters (QB) getting more settled as the pivot in 2011. Look for Josh Hughson (RB) to see a heavy load in both the run and pass game as he makes plays when he can get out of the backfield. Holes on defence could make for some long nights, but they should be able to iron that out as the season progrsses.

4. College Heights Cougars

Possibly the best defence in the North the Cougars will win games and be in the mix giving teams alot of nail biting games. Though they aren't loaded with offensive power, they will do what they do to grind the ball up the field and break the occasional big pass play. Their ability to lock it down on defence with Duncan Finch (DL), Kaelan Botel (LB), Kieran Muir (CB) and Nick Jobs (S) will keep them in every game, but if they can't find the offensive sparkplugs they could be on the wrong end of alot of those close games.

5. Prince George (PGSS) Polars

Last year's defending champions should be near the top of the heap again this season returning some key pieces from last years northern championship team. The offence will go as far as Tyson Plain (QB) and Brady Lecomte (RB) can carry them. On defence Eric Irving (LB) will lead the way for an athletic group that will limit teams in the run game, but could be get beat up by some of the pass heavy teams. Alot of question marks in alot of key places gives the impression that they will win some games, but how many is hard to predict.

6. Correlieu Clansmen

Unfortunatly for the boys out in Quesnel they are still too young and inexperienced to knock off the rest of the north, but with Jared Roch (QB) Cole Parker (RB) and Nolen Weisbock (LB) they should be able to hang in games as their players continue to grow and develop.

GI's 2011 Pre-Season Top 10



Paleontologists frequently describe T. Rex as a Five Tonne Roadrunner.  This year's Mission O. Line is not far off of the mark!



1. Mission: A 76-20 spring scimmage thumping of the proud Windsor Dukes in spring ball (http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valley/m.../123949359.html) with multiple backs averaging 15 yards per-romp and a near perfect QB outing served graphic notice that Mission has bad intentions for AA foes this coming season.  The Roadrunner exhibition schedule is the toughest in BC with tilts vs Washington State's North Kitsap, third ranked Seaquam, AAA powerhouse WJ Mouat and seventh ranked South Delta a statement to this squad's expectations.  If the Roadruners come out of this crucible healthy and unified, they ought to cakewalk through leage play prior to the big divisional tilt with emerging rival Robert Bateman.  The Mission roster is easily the deepest in AA ball.

2. John Barsby: A solid group of veteren players worked very hard over the winter to improve their overall physicality.  The returning varsity are joined by a strong group of JV's from last year's championship finalist squad.  Spring ball however was inconsistent for the Dawgs who struggled somewhat to distance past success from present reality/challenges. If strong leadership emerges within the roster Barsby will  be a force by the time league play begins in October.   Look for last year's record setting offensive juggernaut to have a new wrinkle or two in 2011 as they seek to replace many key positions up front vacated due to graduation.  Defensively the Dawgs are going to be fast and special teams will be a "Pride and Joy" crew week-to week.

3. Seaquam: The Seahawks are veteren, deep up front and have the power backfield they like to employ.  Defensively these guys can play smashmouth with anyone and they rarely if ever find themselves out-finessed by opposing offenses.  There is definitely a pattern with this program of week-to-week improvement and they will be solid during the critical divisional tilts of October.  With the roster, offensive and defensive schemes such as they are, the kicking-game will be all important for the gold and blue.

4. Handsworth: The Handsworth football program has been exploding in terms of participation the past three years at the grade 8 and JV levels.  The varsity are now reaping the harvest and the Royals are going to be very deep across the board in 2011.  A championship appearance last year provided a lot of quality reps and preparation for this year's returning crew and this will be evident right out of the gates in September.  Handsworth can very realistically set their sights on a return to the big game in 2011.  While the re-match versus Barsby in week six is going to be huge and emotionally charged, divisional opponents Ballenas and South Delta had best not be overlooked as they look to secure a little redemption themselves.

5. Holy Cross:  OK, lets talk pride and pressure.  The Crusaders took some body blows from their former AAA bretheren over the decision to join AA ball.  Hec, I am sure there are mixed feelings within the program about the issue as well.  The last thing these guys want to do is be a bust their first year in AA.  A few short years ago, these guys won it all vs the Foxes, VC's, Centennials and Mouats of the big school league.  So, pride of program meets all kinds of external and internal pressure.  This could be a recipe for football TNT.  The roster is surely deep athletically and it is battle hardened from playing top flight competition.  The challenge and excitement for the Crusaders will be in playing teams whom they know very little about.  Also, AA ball the past three years has certainly firmed up its game with the parity that has come with the creation of Tier 2.  Word through the coaching grapevine is that the HC saff thinks it has a pretty darn good squad on its hands.  How good?  Lets talk in December.

6. Robert Bateman: Do any of you history buff's remember Joe Stalin's 5 Year plans?  Well, these guys are on a 3-year plan as far as I can tell.   Big school, starts off year 1 with a varsity squad at Tier 2 and a LOADED JV squad with a 35 plus man roster that is completely 10th graders.  Those JV's were dang good athletes who made it to the quarter-finals.  The varsity crew got some good seasoning keeping things tough and vanilla their first year.  Now its year two and the varsity are playing AA ball.  The bulk of this group will be 11's, but the 12's will be present enough to add some great leadership and physicality to the mix.  The coaching is very good as well and opponents can expect to run up against the whole offensive and defensive package with this outfit.  My impression from watching their JV's last year was a physical, mentally tough, competitive squad with far better than average speed and size.  When they learn to play with their pads a bit lower they are going to be frightening.  Mission may have the best talent through and through this year, but Bateman is not too far off of the mark.  This team will make the playoffs in 2011, it won't be a fun draw for their first round opponent. Now I said 3 year plan.  It's waaaaay early but hey, they ought to be the Eastern favorite in 2012.  Thats right Mission, get your licks in this year while you can.

7. South Delta: The Sundevils are in a unique position amongst the AA elite.  They get great talent every year from their feeder program but that talent is not schooled in the Sundevil way of doing things as South Delta does not run a JV squad.  Each year however, this squad plays playoff calibre ball and they won the whole shebang in 2008.  How so?  Well, this is a very big school, very close to AAA size, so a ready pool of athletes is always on hand.  Secondly, the coaching staff is very good.  The South Delta team that lines up in the week 9 league finale vs Barsby is going to be a lot better than the early and mid-season version.  The coaches have also proven over time a superb ability to match scheme with the talent at hand. Spread  or Power, the offense in Navy and Gold colors will be getting the most out of its very talented athletes.  The defense is coached up in much the same way.  A one or two seed coming out of "The West" is not unimaginable by any stretch for this crew.

8. Ballenas: Aaaannndd here come The Whalers!  Anybody out there watch college football on Saturdays?  Auburn's first year with their offense showed signs of greatness in 2009.  In 2010 it led them to a national title.  Take a look at them Whalers when they have the ball in their hands.  The similarities are manifest.  Ballenas is a two headed monster at quarterback and has a veteren receiver corps that includes one individual who is easily provincial calibre.  Up front, they have their traditional size and lots of xxxl game pants have been pulled off of the equipment room shelf for 2011.  Defensively, the swagger is back and Coach Hines can do his thing with his LB's now there is a line to keep people off of em.  Whaler specials are good to say the least.  This team is very complete and will challenge any squad in the division come game day, particularly Handsworth.  The Ballenas defense has historically dominated the Royal offense like no other.

9. Hugh Boyd: After a down year by Trojan standards, Boyd is back!  A big influx of size and athleticism is moving up from JV and this proud program has too much tradition/competitive juice to be held down for a second straight year.  The coaching staff is deep and we can all rest assured that the midnight oil has been burning late into the early AM in preparation for this year's gridiron campaign.  With plenty of size up-front, look for the Trojans to get things done inside the box while going big over the top.  The Seaquam game and Holy Cross tilt are gonna pop some helmet screws to be sure. It won't be all vanilla however so teams better prep for some circus plays along the way.  Defensively we are going to see a patient, gang tackling unit that does not often surrender the big play.  The kicking game is going to be decisive in each game the Trojans play.

10. Rick Hansen:  Two mediocre JV seasons for the Hurricanes add up to more of the same at varsity in 2011....Wrong!  These guys do a great job of developing players along the way and the coaching staff has proven itself to be able to win games at the highest level over the years.  This year Hansen has great skills players and an offensive line that will allow them to play some pretty balanced run-pass offense.  Hurrican special teams are always well coached and they use their better athletes in these key units.  The biggest question mark headed into 2011 is going to be defense.  If Hansen can keep things tight late into the 4th quarter this year, their offense has the scheme and playmakers to secure the W more often than naught.  Mission and Bateman are going to be too tough for anything other than a number three seed out of the division however.  Playoffs are a funny thing however and a good opening draw could lead the Hurricanes deep into the post-season tournament.