Salinas-Monterey football

Saturday's game
Salinas (4-2) at Monterey (1-5), 2 p.m.
 You knew with a late arriving new coach, breaking in a new system with no off-season, and a new quarterback, growing pains would occur.
 Since that heartbreaking overtime loss to Seaside, the Toreadores have dropped four straight games, having been outscored 50-6 in the fourth quarter.
 Salinas is looking for its first 5-2 start since 2002, the last time the program was undefeated in league play. Last week head coach Steve Goodbody became the winningest coach in school history.
 Quarterback Matt Castaneda has thrown for nearly 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns for Salinas, six to Fresno State bound Ryan Jensen.
 While the Cowboys have not run the ball well, the dump off passes have worked just like a run. And they have been efficient in short yardage with 10 rushing touchdowns.
 Akili Jones has been a bright spot in a somber season for Monterey. Despite opponents stacking the box, the tailback is on pace for a 1,500 yard rushing season.
 The ball-hawking Cowboys defense has allowed just 27 points in four wins -- one touchdown in the second half.