Local Teams Face Big Challenges

Fullerton and Rancho Santiago have chances at knocking off nationally ranked teams today in Mission Conference football games.

Rancho Santiago (0-1) takes on Palomar (1-0), which is ranked ninth in the J.C. Grid-Wire national poll. Kickoff is 1 p.m. at Santa Ana Stadium.

Fullerton (0-1) is at No. 6 El Camino (1-0) in a 7 p.m. game. All four teams are coming off byes.

Rancho Santiago will need a strong effort from its defense to stop Palomar, led by quarterback Chris Keldorf. He was 42 of 66 for 466 yards and four touchdowns in a 40-23 victory over Chaffey.

Grant Mitchell is expected to start at quarterback for Rancho Santiago, which started a nine-game winning streak last season with a victory at Palomar.

The Dons have added running back Steve Bodnar (Mater Dei) to the roster.

Fullerton Coach Gene Murphy said he is most concerned with El Camino’s overall speed. Fullerton is coming off a 31-29 loss to Mt. San Antonio in which sophomore Mike Jacot rushed for 142 yards and Rani Kahouch caught five passes, two for touchdowns.

In other games:

Saddleback (0-1) at Cerritos (1-0), 7 p.m.--Saddleback lost to Long Beach, 35-31, last week. The Gauchos played very well at times but gave up a touchdown with two minutes left and lost after taking the lead 30 seconds earlier.

San Diego Mesa (1-0) vs. Golden West (1-1), Orange Coast, 7 p.m.--Golden West is the only Orange County team with a victory. The Rustlers beat Pasadena, 24-17, last week. Tight end B.J. Crabtree has 15 catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns this season. Wide receiver Wesley Morris has 12 catches for 179 yards and one touchdown.