Palma-Salinas football

Friday's game
Palma (5-1) at Salinas (5-2), 7:30 p.m.
 Coaches have tried to downplay the rivalry all week.
 But both Salinas coach Steve Goodbody and Palma coach Jeff Carnazzo acknowledged the juices are flowing a little more this week for the players.
 How could it not?
 Palma and Salinas shared the Gabilan Division title last season. Most of these kids grew up together playing youth football.
 Of course, the Chieftains have made this rivalry one-sided, having won the last 12 battles between the two schools.
 Palma, though, is banged up. Tailback Emilio Martinez is doubtful with a hamstring and defensive back Vianni Fratangelo, who sealed last week's win with an interception, is out with a concussion.
 Fratangelo could be a bigger issue to replace as Salinas has a potent aerial attack
 In addition, Palma quarterback Jack Richardson will play with a cast on his non-throwing left thumb, making it difficult to take snaps.
 The Cowboys may be playing their best football of the season after erupting for 68 points in beating Monterey last week. At one point, quarterback Matt Castaneda was 15-of-15.
 Salinas' defense, anchored by Kyle Martorella and Eric Salas, has also turned it up a notch, having allowed just 28 points in three league games.
 Drew Dalman and Angel Maldonado have anchored the Chieftains defense up front with Zach Berry solidifying the linebacker core.
 If Salinas attempts to take away tight end Liam McMillin, look for a heavy dose of Palma running back Jared Torculas, who rushed for 216 yards last week.