Soledad football

Pacific Coast Athletic League

Mission Division

Soledad (7-4, 5-1)

 It wasn't just graduation that cut into the Aztecs domain. The program also has a new coach for the first time in six years after Frankie Berlanga abruptly stepped down.

 Fortunately, new coach Eric Rodriguez has a past with the program. His return to Soledad will keep things stable as the defending Mission Trail Athletic League champions embark on a new journey.

 "It helps with the transition, especially coming in late," said Rodriguez, who was the programs junior varsity coach two years ago. "I've coached a lot of these kids. They know what to expect."

 Two years removed from the programs first Central Coast Section Division IV title, the Aztecs lost a record setting quarterback, a three-time 1,000 yard running back and an all-league receiver.

 "Yes, that's a lot to replace," Rodriguez said. "Plus we had no spring ball because I was hired so late. And it's a whole new league. When you win, there is always pressure. That's not a bad thing."

 With the MTAL now a part of the Pacific Coast Athletic League, the Aztecs will be in the Mission Division, where five of the seven teams have been to the postseason in the last two years.

 "I believe people are doubting us because of the coaching change and the loss of personnel," receiver Angel Olivas said. "That only adds incentive. Our goals haven't changed."

 Olivas, who caught 40 passes for 840 yards last fall, was a part of the CCS title team in 2016 and the league championship team last season. 

 When you have compiled six straight winning seasons with four playoff appearances, the cupboard is never completely bare.

 Quarterback Gabriel Florez has looked sharp in practice, particularly in getting the ball down field to his receivers, showing tremendous accuracy throwing into that Soledad afternoon wind.
 "I had Gabriel for two years at the lower levels," Rodriguez said. "I know what he can do. Plus he's a natural leader."

 Of course, Florez will have Olivas, who was elusive after the catch last fall, averaging over 21 yards a reception.

 "He knows he's going to see double teams this year," Rodriguez said. "We're still going to take our shots. He has to get touches. But Angel's presence will create opportunities for others."

 What made Soledad's passing attack so potent last year was its ability to run the ball. Over the last three years, 650 carries and nearly 4,000 yards have come from Emmanuel Ortega.
 But he's graduated.

 "I love to run the ball," Rodriguez said. "With our offensive line, we believe we can effectively run with the personnel we've got."

 Instead of one player grinding, Rodriguez will turn to Jaycob Olivas and Chris Gonzales, two backs with two totally different styles.

 "Jaycob is a power back," Rodriguez said. "Chris is more shifty. Once he gets in the open field, he makes people miss. He's difficult to bring down."

 Soledad's ability to grind and chew up the clock only made its defense that much more dominate last fall, particularly late in the game.

 Linebacker Victor Ocampo and his 108 tackles and six forced fumbles are back along with Jaycob Olivas, who lined up next to him last fall, recording 123 tackles and two sacks.

 Angel Olivas is also one of the top defensive backs in the county, having intercepted two passes last fall while breaking up eight.

 What's critical for Soledad is its production in the trenches. Outside of returning starter Chad Toy, it's a new look on both sides of the ball this season.

 "I'm very pleased with the progress of our offensive line," Rodriguez said. "I'm not changing a lot. The system in place clearly has worked."

 While respect comes with titles, Soledad once again has lined up a brutal non-league schedule with Palma and defending CCS Division V champion Gilroy for its first two games.

 The Aztecs have started 0-2 in each of the last two years, only to rebound with a combined record of 17-3, setting a single-season school record for wins and a two-year record for wins.

 "My approach hasn't changed," Angel Olivas said. "Do what we do and make big plays. We have our own expectations as a team to live up to."