Loara (10-2) vs. Irvine (9-2-1)

7 TONIGHT IRVINE HIGH

Both teams are significantly better than they were in Week 5, when Irvine defeated Loara, 22-13, as Keith Short rushed for two touchdowns, including an 81-yarder. Strong defense highlighted their second-round victories, Irvine beating No. 1 Lakewood Mayfair, 9-7, and Loara beating No. 4 Tustin, 6-3. If Loara is to repeat its 1996 playoff victory over Irvine, it will need a strong performance by its offensive line, especially tackles Chris Haugen and Alex Khojikian. Loara could be without left guard David Wymss (ankle), who would be the second left guard lost this season to an ankle injury.

KEY PLAYERS

Loara

RB Billy Chavez

1,755 yards, 21 TDs

QB Jeremy Ellis

55.1%, 8 TDs, 8 int.

WR Rudy Acosta

31 rec., 14.3 yds./catch

Irvine

QB Mike Ricci

63.5%, 13 TDs, 7 int.

RB/DB Keith Short

1,066 yards, 13 TDs

WR James Whitted

48 rec., 12.6 yds./catch