Alvarez football

Alvarez Eagles (4-7, 2-4)
 The Eagles didn’t hide from expectations last season. But where they realistic? And did last years group put too much pressure on themselves?
 Oh, Alvarez showcased that potential in four wins, producing 164 points. But in seven losses, it had just 68 points.
 There’s little room for error in the Gabilan Division. New head coach Brad Mendes is aware of that, having spent time as an assistant coach at Salinas High the last four years.
"We're fortunate that this program has had some success,'' Mendes said. We're trying to build on that further and take it to the next level in where we want to be as a program.''
 Not only is Mendes installing an up-tempo offense that requires patients, but the defense is getting a face lift as well.
 While Alvarez isn’t rebuilding, it is retooling after 30 seniors graduated. Mendes brings a discipline approach to a program that has made three straight postseason appearances.
 A good starting point for Mendes will be the Eagles defense, anchored by pass rushing demon Alan Llamas, a 400 meter sprint champion in track, that led the football team in sacks last fall.
 "My role on defense has changed a bit,'' Llamas said. "I'm more inside the trenches. So it's run first.  But I feel I still have the flexibility to get out on the edge and be a pass rusher as well.''
 State wrestling qualifier Matt Martinez will roam the middle as a punishing linebacker, and will also see time on offense, potentially as a quarterback.
 Solidifying the secondary are Logan Esparza and multi-talented safety Michael Ramirez, a second team all-league selection last year as a sophomore, and a starter on the basketball team.
 Ramirez will see time in the backfield as well for Alvarez, whose offense was gutted by graduation. A traditional run-first attack in the past, Ramirez is shifty and elusive in the open field.
 "I have big shoes to fill at the running back spot,'' Ramirez said. "I have two big spots to fill, moving from linebacker to free safety this year.''
 All seven teams that defeated Alvarez last year reached the postseason. It will not get any easier with 13-1 Elk Grove on its schedule this fall.
 Yet, the numbers at Alvarez are bigger than any program not named Salinas. When you have close to  170 players in your program, that's a good starting point.
 "We have a lot of good energy and players that are committed,'' Llamas said. "Hopefully we can use that potential and reach our goals here.''