Football: Serra League predictions

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I could spend hour after hour trying to figure out which three teams from the Serra League will make the Pac-5 Division playoffs, and they would keep changing.

The five teams that make up the Serra League _ Loyola, Notre Dame, Crespi, Bishop Amat and Alemany _ start league play this week about as even as you can get on paper. Each has weaknesses but also lots of strengths.

Every game could come down to a field goal or last-minute touchdown. This week’s openers include Notre Dame at Crespi and Alemany at Bishop Amat. You need at least two league wins to be in the playoff hunt. Three will guarantee a spot.

It could come down to matchups. Notre Dame and Bishop Amat can run the football. Crespi and Alemany can pass. Loyola has balance. Notre Dame has injuries on defense. Bishop Amat has been giving up a lot of points. Alemany has not lived up to expectations. Crespi was beaten in its only real test against Vista Murrieta. Loyola gives up too many rushing yards.

So good luck on figuring out the Serra League. I just think every game is going to be a tough one. Just remember how last season ended, with Crespi beating Notre Dame on a miracle final play.

-- Eric Sondheimer