North Salinas-Monterey football

Friday's game
North Salinas (2-1) at Monterey (3-0), 7:30 p.m.
 While the Vikings have already surpassed last year's entire win total, Monterey has equaled its win total from last fall three weeks into the season.
 Arguably the two most improved teams in the county, both have wins over Gabilan Division teams this fall.
 Matt Morales has been an impact player in his return to North Salinas, having rushed for over 400 yards and four touchdowns this fall.
 Since giving up a late fourth quarter touchdown in a season opening loss, the Vikings defense has allowed one touchdown in their last eight quarters, shutting out Mountain View two weeks ago.
 Monterey posted its first shutout in 40 games last week. All three of its wins this season have come against teams that took part in the playoffs last year.
 Tailback Tim Byrd is a threat each time he touches the ball for the Toreadores, while Janias Thomas has blown threw holes in limited carries.
 Quarterback Evans Charles continues to build chemistry with Azjani McGill and Eris Hutchins, two members of last year's state qualifying 400 relay team.
 The last time two teams faced each other was in 2014 with Monterey outscoring North Salinas 50-21.