King City football

King City Mustangs (5-5, 4-3)

 A lot of ammunition departed through graduation as the Mustangs lost their top two leading rushers, their leading receiver and the starting quarterback, not to mention two starting lineman.
 That doesn’t necessary bold well for a program that has not been to the postseason in 10 years, or has won a Mission Trail Athletic League title in 33 years.
 Says who?
 Those that are back in blue have a different opinion, starting with coach Mac Villaneuva, who came back this year after considering stepping down.
 "For me, there is unfinished business,'' Villanueva said. "In the last four years, we have missed the playoffs by one game three times. I think we've got a group of kids to get us over the hump.''
 New quarterback Tommy Stephens has watched three older brothers come through the program for the Mustangs -- having demonstrated poise and precession in the off-season.
 The junior showcased a strong and accurate arm over the summer, developing chemistry with a core of receivers that includes David Ortiz, who caught 20 passes last season, and Clay Barbree,
 "I know my role is going to increase this year,'' Barbree said. "I hope to quadruple my catches. The quarterback and I have great chemistry and have been best friends for a while.''
 King City strived for balance last fall. A committee backfield included returner Jonathan Perez, who averaged nearly seven yards in limited duty.
 What has been a concern for the Mustangs over the last decade has been depth and health. Surviving a non-league schedule that includes Monte Vista and Seaside is critical.
 Numerous players will start on both sides of the ball, including Perez, who averaged 12 tackles in the teams final five games. Ortiz is also one of the leagues better defensive backs.
 Defense could be a strength for King City with the return of  Barbree, who was among the leaders in tackles last year as a sophomore. Texas transfer DeVante Anderson is going to open some eyes.
 King City gave up 115 points in three MTAL losses, 82 points in four league wins. The 285 points it allowed over 10 games was the second most in league play.
 Unlike last season, where the Mustangs spent the first month of the fall on the road, two of their first three games this year will be at home.
 Then again, King City was just 1-3 at historic War Memorial Stadium last year. That has to change for a playoff run.