Football Tour XIII

Palma (7-4, 6-0)
 If we learned anything about last season when Palma opened 0-3, it's never write off a team that has made 30 straight playoff appearances -- and has never lost an MBL Gabilan Division game.
 That being said, the Chieftains are a bit of a mystery. Who is the starting quarterback? Who replaces school rushing record holder Brandon Olivares in the backfield?
 Who takes the place of two-way starter Wesley Pezzini, who is out for the year after tearing a knee ligament in a non-contact drill before the season started?
 You don't rebuild when you've been making playoff appearances for three decades. You reload. But there could be as many as seven new starters on the offensive side of the ball.
 "The key to this team is: Can we rally around each other?'' Palma coach Jeff Carnazzo said.
 The Chieftains defense may have to dictate the tempo until the offense finds its stride. A handful of starters are back. Reigning Lineman of the Year Eduardo Barbosa is a good starting point.
 "We do have some key seniors that are going to be a big factor, especially on the defensive side of the ball,'' Carnazzo said.
 Once again, Palma has a schedule that features 10 teams that went to the postseason last year.

 Check The Herald's website for an interview with Palma coach Jeff Carnazzo.