Bishop Diego (5-0) at Carpinteria (4-2), 7:30 p.m.: A titanic of an opener in the Tri-Valley League. Both teams are on a roll and coming outstanding defensive performances: Bishop shutting down San Diego small schools power Santa Fe Christian, 13-8, and Carpinteria blanking Fillmore and its Wing-T offense, 27-0. The defense that steps up, prevents the big play and forces turnovers will be the difference-maker Friday night. It should be an interesting match of wits between two fine defensive coordinators: Rick Candaele of Carpinteria and Ralph Molina of Bishop. Both have years of experience under their belts. The challenge is little more complex for Candaele because the Cardinals mix up their attack with two quarterbacks, Anthony Carter and Gabe Molina. Bishop’s defense faces the challenge of trying to get to Carpinteria quarterback Ian Craddock. Last year’s game was close until Bishop capitalized on some turnovers in the fourth quarter. The pick: Bishop Diego.
Dos Pueblos (4-2) at San Marcos (1-5), 7 p.m.: The game for the Jeff Hesselmeyer Trophy will be played for the first time at San Marcos’ Warkentin Stadium. The host Royals had a tough preseason, winning one game and losing their starting quarterback. But coach Anthony Linebaugh has reminded his players it’s the second season and they have new life. They’re going to have to mix things up on offense in order to move the ball against a swarming Dos Pueblos defense. The Chargers’ offense has a lot of weapons and will be looking to score a lot points in this crosstown game. The pick: Dos Pueblos.
Santa Barbara (5-1) at Buena (2-4), 7 p.m.: The Dons enjoyed their best preseason in years, but now comes the true test to see if they have what it takes to challenge for the Channel League title and make the playoffs. Buena has been up and down during the non-league schedule. The Bulldogs open league on a two-game winning streak, beating Rio Mesa and Pacifica — two teams the Dons defeated. Quarterback David Corral has completed 57 percent of his passes; his favorite target is Dylan Colman, who has 30 catches for 364 yards and four TDs. Chris Beeson is the top rusher. This figures to be a close game. The pick: Santa Barbara
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