NOTES

Add Larceny Dept.: The improvement of quarterback Brandon Brennan is one of the biggest reasons Western (4-0) is off to its best start since 1984. But the Pioneer defense has had a big hand in the turnaround too.

The Pioneers return eight defensive starters from a team that was outscored, 164-94, and went 2-8 last season.

Although the Pioneers are giving up 13 1/2 points per game this season, they have three players among the county leaders in interceptions--safety David Diaz (three) and linebackers Albert Porter and Rudy Rodriguez (two each). Rodriguez broke two bones in his left forearm against La Quinta two weeks ago and will miss at least the rest of the regular season. Defensive coordinator Bill Murvin said Rodriguez could be back in time for the playoffs, if the Pioneers qualify.