Alisal (2-8, 2-4)
Last fall was a rebuilding project for first-year coach Jim Lockwood -- the program's third coach in three years.
The beginning was rough as Alisal dropped its first four games as injuries mounted.
Five different quarterbacks started games last year after the first four were sidelined for various reasons.
Patience was preached.
Closing the season with a road win against a team still in playoff contention was enough to warrant that the players have bought into Lockwood's vision.
It's been 11 years since the Trojans captured the program's first and only league title.
In a balanced Pacific Division, Alisal is a contender.
There is quickness at the skilled positions, a quarterback in Raul Garnica, who has a good arm and a grasp of the system, and adequate size in the trenches to move the ball.
All-league defensive back David Valencia is back on a defense that held its last two opponents to a combined 21 points last season.
A quick start is critical for Alisal. Over the past six years, it is 1-5 in season openers. That one season-opening win is the last time it's had a winning record.
Go to montereyherald.com for a video interview with coach Jim Lockwood.
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