Carmel football

 Past playoff performances have seen meltdowns on defense. Offense was prioritized for the Padres program. The results include two of the state's top 10 performances in the last decade.
 Yet, it's been a decade since Carmel won a Central Coast Section title with a 12-0 record. Not that it hasn't been competitive, having reached two more section finals.
 But in eight postseason setbacks since that magical title run, the Padres have allowed just under 40 points (39.9) in those season ending losses.
 The offensive numbers are still there, as evident by Carmel averaging over 50 points a game in its first four games this season.
 However, what was learned in last Friday's 14-0 win over Monte Vista is its defense can carry the team as well.
 Anchored by Robert Brown and his 11 sacks this fall, and Zach DeZee, who had seven interceptions last year, Carmel has recorded two shutouts this season.
 Its biggest statement came in the season opener when it shutout Salinas in the second half. In fact, Carmel's first team defense has allowed just one touchdown in the last 18 quarters.
 That's a recipe for a title run. Outscoring teams is no longer the criteria. Oh, the Padres will put 50 on you if they can. The throttle has not been taken off. And they will score quickly if they can.
 But if your defense is recording three-and-outs or producing turnovers (12), it's still not spending a lot of time on the field.