Merced-Monterey Peninsula football

Saturday's game
Merced (2-3) at Monterey Peninsula (3-2), 6 p.m.
 The Lobos have to find a way to win a home game as they are 3-0 on the road, winless at home. Both losses have been by a touchdown, including a setback to conference co-champion West Hills.
 A trio of freshmen have recharged MPC's defense. Seaside graduate Andrew Jakubowsky has a team high 37 tackles while Salinas product Elijah Kirkland has three picks and 31 tackles.
 The biggest addition has been former Alvarez and Herald Defensive Player of the Year Anthony McKay, who after being away from the game for five years, has solidified the interior defense with five sacks and 30 tackles.
 While the ground game on offense is struggling to get established, Brandon Sampson is among the state leaders in receptions with 42 for 514 yards.
 Quarterback Keon Marsh has thrown for nearly 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns while backup Kody Steele has been efficient with four touchdowns and no picks in 50 attempts.
 After an 2-0 start, Merced has dropped three straight, including a 41-35 decision to Hartnell on Oct. 3.
 Two different quarterbacks have combined to throw for over 1,400 yards and 10 touchdowns while tailback Josh Stevens has 631 yards and six rushing touchdowns.
 Merced's struggles have been on defense. In its two wins, it allowed 10 points a game. But in three setbacks, it's allowing 38.2 points a game.