WESTERN

1997 RECORD: 4-6 overall, 2-3 in league

COACH: Toby Howell (9-12 at school)

RETURNING STARTERS: 4 on offense, 6 on defense

TOP RETURNERS

Jason Baughman, QB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Aaron Cisneros, OL, 6-2, 265, Sr.; Jeremiah Goyena, OL/DL, 6-1, 270, Sr.; Trevell Jackson, RB, 6-0, 225, Sr.; David Mancha, DL, 6-2, 235, Sr.; Will Ruffin, WR/DB, 5-10, 170, Jr.

TOP NEWCOMERS

Jacob Chavira, OL/DL, 6-3, 275, Jr.; Darryl Gober, RB/DB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Fili Leilua, DE, 6-0, 235, Sr.; Ivan Ramirez, LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Jamiah Williamson, RB/LB, 6-1, 210, Jr.

OUTLOOK

Western welcomes back one of the most talented running backs in the county in Jackson, who scored 21 touchdowns last season, including a county record seven rushing touchdowns against Santa Ana Valley. Jackson was also the county’s ninth-leading rusher last season, gaining 1,540 yards in 217 carries, an average of just over seven yards per carry. The all-league back has added 15 pounds to his frame and his physique brings comparisons to last season’s standout, DeShaun Foster of Tustin. Of course Jackson will be the focal point of the offense, but Baughman will add some balance to the Pioneers’ attack. Baughman threw 10 interceptions compared to five touchdown passes last season, but should improve behind a stronger offensive line. Western lost Scott Vandygrift, one of the bigger and better linemen in the county, to graduation, but the Pioneers have other strong blockers in all-leaguers Cisneros and Goyena. Mancha is another returning all-leaguer who will solidify the defensive line, and Ruffin brings some talent to the wingback and defensive back positions. Howell thinks the Pioneers will be stronger and more aggressive on defense this season, which along with another solid year from Jackson should give them an edge in the league race.

SCHEDULE

Sept. 11 vs. Loara at Glover Stadium; 18 vs. El Toro; 25 vs. Rancho Alamitos.

Oct. 2 vs. Costa Mesa at Orange Coast; 9 vs. Sonora at La Habra HS; 15 vs. Savanna; 23 at Brea Olinda; 30 vs. Magnolia.

Nov. 5 vs. Valencia; 12 vs. Anaheim.