Five Merced-area high school football games to watch
Merced (8-3) at Del Campo (8-3) – The Bears defense and special teams have contributed heavily the last two weeks. Ulonzo Gilliam has returned punts for touchdowns in two consecutive games. Stephen Williams has been making a difference on special teams and on passing downs as a rushing defensive end. The Merced defense racked up eight sacks last week against Beyer. Merced is going to need a similar performance against the Cougars.
The Bears will also need to generate more early offense than they did in the first matchup, when Del Campo built a three-touchdown lead through three quarters.
Los Banos (8-3) at Manteca (10-1) – The big Tigers line will have to deal with an even bigger Buffaloes front on both sides of the ball. Los Banos must grind out a low-scoring slugfest against a physical Manteca team that is giving up just 10 points per game.
Los Banos must be able to run the ball with running back Chris Kyles and make passing plays when needed.
Stone Ridge Christian (9-2) vs. Brookside Christian (7-4) at Bear Creek High in Stockton (Saturday) – Stone Ridge Christian faces its toughest task against an explosive Brookside Christian offense that was even better in the second half with the addition of Lincoln transfer Reuben Lee.
Stone Ridge Christian will have to control the clock with its running game, led by Jonathan Collazo.
Madera South (4-7) at Chowchilla (8-1) – The Redskins’ secondary will face one of its toughest tests against Stallions quarterback Jonah Johnson. Chowchilla should be rested after another bye last week. The Redskins can keep the ball out of Johnson’s hands with their rushing attack, which is averaging 300 yards.
Yosemite (8-3) at Dos Palos (7-4) – The Broncos closed the season strong and carried momentum into the playoffs with a 48-0 win over Kern Valley last week. It was the fourth consecutive shutout for the Dos Palos defense. Tre Walker led the Broncos rushing attack with 179 yards and three touchdowns. Expect more of the same.
Shawn Jansen
This story was originally published November 17, 2016 at 3:22 PM with the headline "Five Merced-area high school football games to watch."