Rialto Eisenhower (11-1) vs. Mater Dei (10-2)

7:30 TONIGHT SANTA ANA STADIUM

The Monarchs had an easy time disposing of their first two playoff opponents, Redlands and Mission Hills Alemany. But they face an explosive team in Eisenhower, which lost only to Canyon Springs. Mario McDowell, a 6-2, 215-pound tailback, is being wooed by Wisconsin as a possible successor to Heisman Trophy favorite Ron Dayne. Eisenhower Coach Tom Hoak said he will need a big game out of McDowell and then some: “We don’t really match up to them. We have some speed at our skill positions, but we’ll have to take some chances. If they play a great game, we can’t beat them.”

KEY PLAYERS

Eisenhower

LB Donte Bowers

team-leading 75 tackles

TE David Kelly

23 receptions

RB Mario McDowell

1,520 yds., 27 TDs

Mater Dei

RB/S Matt Grootegoed

756 yds. rush, 13 TDs

QB Matt Leinart

1,907 yds., 12 TDS

RB Junior Palacios

1,146 yds., 15 TDs